The development and use of digital technologies and solutions is proliferating in health care, but even well-intended technologies and solutions can unintentionally create, perpetuate or exacerbate inequities. To address this challenge, AHRQ, in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and NCQA, developed an evidence- and consensus-based Digital Healthcare Equity Framework (DHEF) for ensuring that health equity intentionality is considered across the digital health care lifecycle. The DHEF and Implementation Guide provide a comprehensive approach to advancing health equity in the digital health care domain. The framework supports the broader goal of reducing health disparities and promoting equitable health care for all.

To facilitate DHEF uptake and use, a Practical Implementation Guide was developed for framework users. The guide provides approaches to incorporating feedback loops, and assessments to gauge and monitor the impact of digital technologies for care and process outcomes, and for improvement in equity and health care experience outcomes. 

Kevin Chaney, MGS, Senior Advisor for Dissemination and Innovation at AHRQ, will provide an overview development of the DHEF and Implementation Guide, where to find and how to use the guide and AHRQ's latest efforts and initiativesfocused on health equity and disparities. 

Matt Austin, PhD, MS, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, and co-lead in development and design of the DHEF, will outline the scoping review and approach for creating the evidence- and consensus-based framework and guide.

Bridget G. Hurd, MBA, Vice President, and Chief Diversity Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), leads and executes corporate inclusion and diversity strategy. She also leads the Office of Health and Health Care Disparities with a vision of Better Health for All. Ms. Hurd was a technical expert panel member in development of the framework and guide, and will provide unique perspectives, including how they can help organizations develop and build capacity to incorporate equity.