Virginia Senate Bill SB638

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22

Caption

Practitioners; completion of education relating to unconscious implicit bias & cultural competency.

Impact

The bill aims to amend existing healthcare regulations to include mandatory training on cultural competency and implicit bias. By requiring this education, the state hopes to improve the quality of care provided to patients from diverse backgrounds. This initiative is particularly important in a healthcare environment that increasingly values inclusivity and acknowledges the impact of social determinants on health outcomes. The additional training is designed to enrich practitioners' understanding of varying cultural contexts, ultimately fostering better communication and trust between healthcare providers and patients.

Summary

SB638 focuses on the requirement for practitioners in Virginia to complete continuing education specifically on unconscious implicit bias and cultural competency. The proposed amendment to §54.1-2912.1 of the Code of Virginia entails that all licensed practitioners must obtain two hours of continuing education in these subjects during each biennium. This measure is seen as a critical step toward promoting more ethical practices and enhancing patient safety by ensuring that healthcare providers are aware of and address unconscious biases in their practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise around the adequacy and effectiveness of the proposed training programs. Critics may argue that merely requiring additional education hours does not guarantee that practitioners will effectively implement these teachings in their practice. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the administrative burden this places on healthcare providers, especially if the resources or support systems for delivering such training are insufficient. Supporters of the bill, however, may argue that these requirements are essential for improving healthcare equity and responsiveness in service delivery.