How health systems are navigating Trump’s anti-DEI push
Read Article: Modern Healthcare
Article Summary: The Trump administration has taken steps to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in government agencies, urging private sector organizations to follow suit. Healthcare organizations, many of which depend on federal funding, are responding by adjusting or removing DEI language from public reports and reassessing leadership titles and programs to minimize legal and political risks. Some hospitals and health systems are staying silent on the issue, while others are tactically rebranding DEI efforts to maintain their commitments while avoiding federal scrutiny.
The Risk:
Federal Scrutiny and Compliance Risk: The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department has started investigating hospitals and medical schools for potential DEI-related discrimination. Healthcare organizations with publicly visible DEI initiatives may face legal or regulatory actions, requiring them to reassess programs and policies to ensure compliance with evolving federal mandates.
Reputational and Public Relations Risk: Hospitals and health systems must balance DEI commitments with political and legal pressures. Changes in DEI policies—such as renaming departments or removing references in public reports—could lead to public backlash from employees, advocacy groups, and communities, affecting trust and organizational reputation.