Graduate Student University of Wisconsin - Madison, formerly at Grinnell College Madison, Wisconsin, United States
Abstract Authors: Julia Tlapa1; Maria Tapias2
1. Department of Comparative Biosciences, UW-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA. 2. Department of Anthropology, Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa, USA.
Abstract Text: This paper asks how healthcare providers in the field of in-vitro-fertilization make IVF healthcare inclusive to the diverse group of patients they serve. In this study, eight healthcare providers with different jobs were interviewed from the same IVF healthcare facility. These interviews provide evidence for the arguments made in this paper. Provider word choice matters due to the political implications of human embryo science. Providers attempt to neutralize their word choices as much as possible in order to minimize their influence on patient decisions, as well as include as many patient identities as possible. In addition to word choice, language is also important for inclusive care. Specifically, language interpretation, translation, and time constraints are ways in which providers work to ensure inclusive care, even if they fall short due to limitations by the US medical system. Providers also use images, plain language, and information prioritization strategy to be able to communicate with patients effectively. Finally, providers work to elevate cultural competency to cultural humility.
