Why Riverside Healthcare Prioritizes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, delivering high-quality care goes beyond clinical expertise—it requires a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Health systems that prioritize DEI initiatives, including Riverside Healthcare, foster environments where both patients and employees feel valued, respected, and understood.

From addressing health disparities to building more inclusive workplaces, these initiatives are not just ethical imperatives but strategic necessities for improving patient outcomes and workforce engagement. Here, Tierra Dixon-Sullivan, Riverside's DEI Coordinator, shares how Riverside is making meaningful strides in DEI—highlighting key programs, challenges, and the impact of these efforts.

A Year-Round Observation of Black History Month

Riverside Healthcare treats DEI as a critical function rather than an afterthought, just like payroll or operations. DEI plays a key role in employee engagement, retention, and—especially in healthcare—directly impacts patient safety and satisfaction. By prioritizing DEI, Riverside ensures a more inclusive workplace and better patient outcomes.

The health system’s efforts encompass observing Black History Month (February)—but that attitude persists all year round. “I think it's important to highlight it throughout the year because representation does matter, and Black history is American history,” states Dixon-Sullivan. “Historically, Black history wasn't taught as extensive as American history. I remember growing up in school I learned about MLK, Rosa Parks, and the Civil Rights Movement, but I didn't really learn about Black inventors, Black explorers, Black Wall Street, and a lot of other significant parts of history.”

Specific DEI Initiatives

Riverside is intentional about recognizing the contributions of Black individuals in both its workforce and community, both historically and today. During Black History Month, the organization hosts internal learning initiatives to educate staff, patients, and visitors. Additionally, Riverside shares celebratory messaging across its network and actively participates in community events to show support and engagement.

Yet, the DEI efforts don’t end there. There is a DEI governance committee, as well as a variety of subcommittees. “We also have our annual DEI goals that encompass the many identities that make up Riverside and the communities we serve. That includes our aging community or elders, our military communities, LGBTQ+ community, Spanish speaking community, and that's just to name a few,” shares Dixon-Sullivan. “I think it's important to highlight that our DEI efforts are constantly evolving to match the diverse needs of our organization and our communities.”

For anyone interested in getting involved with Riverside’s DEI subcommittees or joining the Military Friendly and Veteran Affinity Group, you can contact Riverside Healthcare’s general line at (815) 933-1671.