Promoting Workforce Diversity at NYU Medical Center, Coursework Example

Workforce diversity is crucial to the proper functioning of any public health institution. New York University Langone is a great example of a medical center that prides itself on its workforce diversity. New York University Langone is the leading public health institution in New York City, one of the most highly densely populated cities in the United States, and their excellent ability to train and implement a diverse team of workers is what makes them so reputable. “At NYU Langone Medical Center, diversity [is] a fundamental value, inherent in the Center’s mission throughout its long and groundbreaking history. Diversity at NYU Langone is not just a matter of statistics; it is a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering excellence” (NYU Staff, 2010). Developing this type of diverse workplace and implementing a plan to create and maintain such a workplace is not as easy as it would seem. Many challenges come up when trying to create a diverse workforce and proper management combined with strong leadership can strongly help a healthcare institution create a more unified environment.

Challenges when trying to implement workforce diversity can include communication difficulties, such as language barriers, opposition to change, and racial stereotypes. “The implementation process may present challenges to everyone involved, and frustrations may arise because implementation is not as smooth as expected” (Johnson, 2013).

The implementation of workplace diversity is the key to its success. Managers should be capable of handling diversity issues well and be able to deal with confrontation management. Training programs can help those from different backgrounds ease their way into their new work environment, which can make it easier for good communication to flow throughout the office. “According to Lawrence Herzog of HCareers, managers face challenges when new employees from diverse backgrounds interact with long-standing employees” (Johnson, 2013). Training programs are much smoother transitions than directly throwing a new employee into a workplace that may be foreign to him or her.

Resources:

NYU Staff “Diversity Affairs.” School of Medicine. NYU Langone Medical Center, n.d. Web. 02 May 2013. http://school.med.nyu.edu/studentsfaculty/diversity-affairs

Johnson, Rose. “Examples of Diversity Problems in the Workplace.” Chron. Houston Chronicle, 2013. Web. 2 May 2013. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/examples-diversity-problems-workplace-19389.html