Equality and diversity in health governance systems: are we getting it right and are there lessons from COVID-19? Education

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted major challenges in governance and inequalities particularly among those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) groups. This paper focuses on the BAME community and explores this through a governance lens, with particular reference to the representation and functioning of boards involved in healthcare and building a transparent culture. To illustrate this, the paper utilises a series of structured reflective questions with model answers termed Right Question, Right Answer and links to the Centre for Quality in Governance (CQG) Maturity Matrix. This article highlights the need to improve diversity and accountability of health and care organisations to their staff and local population. For governance to be effective, it must be aligned and comply with healthcare system regulations to ensure improvement of legislative acts and standards. The paper aims to inform government policy by moving from rhetoric, or merely describing challenges, to action and change by increasing accountability.