Death by 1,000 cuts refers to an ancient method of physical torture in which small incisions were made on a victim’s body, none of which were deadly unto themselves, but all together inflicted a slow and agonizing death.
Social psychologists equate this same effect of cutting to the insults, put-downs, offensive behaviors, and invalidations that people of marginalized groups experience on a daily basis, often by well-intentioned people who may be unaware of their impact or consequence. These mental cuts are “microaggressions” and they can be mitigated and dismantled if we appropriately recognize our own biases and how they may contribute to inequities in society.
Understanding the macro impact of microaggressions and the weight that race and stereotyping plays on patients allows family physicians to provide better mental and physical health care to their patients. Discussing these topics with peers and patients is not taboo; it is a needed ingredient in the doctor’s bag of a compassionate physician.
Now you can self-study and then join your peers…
“How to Talk to Your Patients and Family Medicine Peers about Race: What are Microaggressions?”
Health Equity & Social Justice Discussion Club
Wednesday, March 16, at 7:30 p.m.
Recommended Resources
Discussion Registration
Moderator: Wayne Forde, MD, FAAFP
Participants will review a curated selection of virtual content including videos, articles, and blogs to inform their discussion. Learners are encouraged to consume as much of the materials as they wish by working independently and applying their knowledge to their medical pursuits. Pick and choose the content that best suits your interests and lifestyle!
- How to talk about race and racism with peers and patients in the medical setting
- Understand what microaggressions are and their often unintended impact on marginalized people
- Recognize the cultural and racial blind spots and how reflective thinking can change the way you live and practice
- The power of being vulnerable and taking steps toward being an anti-racist ally.
Background
The Ohio Academy of Family Physicians (OAFP) Health Equity & Social Justice Discussion Club is a safe and respectful virtual space to discuss important literature, media, and current events on topics of social justice and health equity – all from the comfort of your home or office. Guided conversations provide unique opportunities for insightful reflection and open minded sharing with your peers. Sessions will take place via Zoom under the guidance of a physician moderator. Registration is free and open to all OAFP members as a benefit of membership.
The Health Equity & Social Justice Discussion Club will alternate between traditional books and a curated collection of virtual content. You do not have to read the entire book or all of the virtual content to participate! All points of view are welcomed and respected.
- Wednesday, May 18 @ 7:30 p.m.
Book: A Doctor’s Dozen: Twelve Strategies for Personal Health and a Culture of Wellness
Moderator: Jaividhya Dasarathy, MD, FAAFP
Discussion Registration - Thursday, July 21, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Curated Virtual Content: “Providing Compassionate Care to Survivors of Domestic Violence”
Moderator: Mary Krebs, MD, FAAFP
Discussion Registration - Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Book: Canary in the Coal Mine: A Forgotten Rural Community: A Hidden Epidemic, and a Lone Doctor Battling for the Life, Health and Soul of the People
Moderator: Roxanne Cech, MD, FAAFP
Discussion Registration - Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at 7:30 p.m.
Curated Virtual Content: “Health Equity for Marginalized Populations Struggling with Homelessness, Mental Health & Substance Abuse Disorder”
Moderator: Dana Vallangeon, MD
Discussion Registration
Members participating in the Health Equity & Social Justice Discussion Club can submit a Continuing Medical Education (CME) Reporting Form to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) member resource center to claim CME credit as a professional enrichment activity. Credit may be claimed, commensurate with participation, for partaking in other medical educational experiences and activities, such as informal self-learning activities. These activities may or may not be documented, and are not certified by the AAFP, the American Medical Association, and the American Osteopathic Association, but are of a nature of professional enrichment to the family physician.
If you have questions, please contact Deputy Executive Vice President Kate Mahler, CAE, or call 614.914.5626.