Learn about the advocacy and inclusive excellence efforts from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Inclusive Excellence in Obstetrics and Gynecology 

The Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is committed to inclusive excellence. We proudly recruit, train and employ faculty, staff and learners representing diverse communities. We also proudly serve and advocate for countless Indiana communities with different social and cultural needs and backgrounds.

Our commitment to inclusive excellence means we advocate for and provide equitable care for marginalized populations. As the School of Medicine’s most diverse department, we engage with communities across the state to understand and address disparate health care needs. Most importantly, we train the next generation of physicians to make a difference in their own communities and beyond.

Advocacy in our department means working to be a voice for those who are most vulnerable. We all deserve to reach our full health potential, including access to full-spectrum, unbiased health care.

Jasmine Johnson, MD

Assistant Professor of Clinical Obstetrics & Gynecology  

Department Advocacy Activities

Faculty members, residents, fellows and staff prioritize advocacy and community outreach efforts. Our team members engage in many health advocacy and equity activities, including:

  • Providing testimony before legislative bodies at the local, state and national levels on issues related to fertility, medical coverage, LGBTQ+ rights and more

  • Creating training materials for medical students, residents and physicians on the effective implementation and use of telemedicine and translation services to provide equitable care to rural and English as a second language (ESL) patients

  • Leading the Indiana American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

  • Providing advocacy training for medical students and residents

  • Building residents’ advocacy skills with a formal curriculum

  • Researching health disparities and social determinants of health to establish better practices of care

  • Speaking with US Senators and Representatives about the need to increase NIH funding for cancer clinical trials

  • Supporting policies that provide improvements in health care, such as insurance coverage for cancer patients seeking fertility options, expanding Medicaid and increasing HPV vaccination

  • Attending health fairs to educate community members about the importance of including all patients in clinical trials

We must ensure that all marginalized patients are seen, heard and safe under our care. True acceptance of people allows for higher quality and more compassionate care.

Lisa Landrum, MD, PhD

Interim Chair, Mary Fendrich Hulman Professor of Gynecologic Oncology

Inclusive Excellence at Indiana University School of Medicine

The Center for Inclusive Excellence prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. The principles set forth by the center guide our department's efforts in creating safe, welcoming spaces for all patients, learners, staff and faculty.