New certificate program promotes equity in healthcare

Encountering bias in the healthcare system can lead to uneven or tragic outcomes, particularly for marginalized communities. To address a critical training gap for healthcare workers, SFU Continuing Studies has launched the Equity in Healthcare Certificate program. The new program will prepare healthcare professionals to work with diverse populations and promote equitable access to healthcare.

“In Canada, health authorities are seeing the devastating impacts of systemic racism and discrimination,” says Julia Denholm, dean of Lifelong Learning (which includes Continuing Studies). “Our new program aims to improve healthcare outcomes for everyone by providing specialized training in creating an inclusive, culturally safe healthcare environment.”

Developed in partnership with B.C.’s Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), the part-time program was initially offered exclusively to PHSA employees in 2024 on a pilot basis. SFU Continuing Studies has now made it available across the country to healthcare professionals in any role, from clinicians to leaders and administrators.

Conveniently delivered online, the program is designed to accommodate learners’ needs for flexibility. Students can register for individual courses or apply any course to the full certificate. Learners can also earn three microcertificates, all of which have been approved for Canadian Medical Education credits.

Registration is now open for fall 2025 courses.