Cultivating the Power of Influencers to Advance Equity in Healthcare

A series of case studies explores how influencers can support equity-centered innovations in healthcare. 

The Issue

While there is ample information on who innovators and change agents are, there is a lack of information on how influencers can fuel the adoption of innovation. This series seeks to understand who influencers are and the ways which they can spread approaches to equity. Organizations supporting innovation to advance equity in healthcare will benefit from a more intentional approach to identify and support influencers.

Key Findings

Through interviews with more than 50 leaders and a review of case studies about successful innovation, the authors determine that influencers:

• Elevate innovation
• Catalyze early adoption
• Shape policy and environmental conditions
• Shift public opinion and culture

The tools of influencers include:

• Media and Press
• Publications
• Social Media
• Podcasts
• Networks
• Conferences
• Awards and Fellowships

Conclusion

Influencers have the unique ability to elevate innovations, shift public opinion and policy, and breed a healthcare culture that supports the common good. Influencers are not a homogenous group, meaning it is essential to amplify diverse voices in communicating innovation that could improve healthcare. These case studies discuss the support and investment necessary to transform knowledgeable leaders committed to advancing health equity into powerful influencers.

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