Division of General Rheumatology and Immunology
Diversity and Inclusion
The Division of Rheumatology and Immunology strives to foster an inclusive, collaborative, and diverse environment to promote professional growth while delivering compassionate and equitable patient care. Since January 2023, Dr. Erin Wilfong has represented our division as a member of the Department of Medicine’s Diversity Liaison Committee, and maintains a list of resources for self-directed learning on various diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) topics. In 2023, Dr. Wilfong participated in a 16-week fellowship on institutional DEI leadership. During this fellowship, she developed a curriculum centered around increasing support and inclusion of our diverse staff, trainees, and faculty through increased awareness of the challenges these individuals face both inside and outside of the Medical Center.
Recent DEI Activities
Rheumatology Grand Rounds
May 11, 2023: Dr. Walter Clair, MD, MPH – Microaggressions
Jan. 12, 2023: Dr. Ashira Blazer, MD, MSCI – Health Disparities in SLE
Quality Improvement Projects
Dr. Catherine Deffendall: Improving continuity of care and patient satisfaction at Nashville General Hospital Rheumatology Clinic
Vanderbilt DEI Resources
- VUMC Department of Medicine Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
VUMC Minority Housestaff for Academic and Medical Achievement
Vanderbilt University Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and Intersex Life
Diversity Literature and Articles (SharePoint access required)
