Maryland requires all licensed healthcare workers to retake implicit bias training

In a recent session of the Maryland General Assembly's Finance Committee, significant discussions emerged regarding the implications of a new bill mandating additional implicit bias training for licensed healthcare workers. This requirement, which builds upon a law established in 2021, aims to address structural racism within the healthcare system.

The committee members expressed concerns about the necessity of requiring healthcare professionals to undergo this training again, especially since many had already completed a similar course just a few years prior. The law stipulates that all licensed healthcare providers must complete a new training program focused on structural racism, even if they have previously taken an implicit bias course that included related content. This has raised questions about the burden placed on healthcare workers, particularly in light of existing staffing shortages and the time commitment required for the training.

Senators debated the potential benefits of refresher courses, with some arguing that ongoing education could enhance the quality of care provided to patients. However, others highlighted the inconvenience and financial implications for healthcare workers, many of whom had to pay for the initial training. The committee noted that while the new training is intended to be offered at no cost, concerns remain about the sustainability of funding and the effectiveness of repeated training on implicit bias.

The Maryland Nurses Association has been tasked with developing the new training program, which is expected to be web-based and accessible to all health occupations. This initiative is part of a broader effort to dismantle systemic racism in healthcare, supported by a grant from the American Nurses Association. However, some committee members questioned the reliability of this funding and the necessity of mandating such training for professionals who have already demonstrated their commitment to addressing bias in their practice.

As the committee continues to deliberate, the outcome of this bill could have far-reaching implications for healthcare providers across Maryland. The discussions underscore the ongoing challenges of balancing the need for education on implicit bias and structural racism with the practical realities faced by healthcare workers in a demanding and often under-resourced environment. The committee is expected to revisit these issues in future sessions, as they seek to finalize the legislation and address the concerns raised by healthcare professionals.