Cummins is striving to achieve excellence in all aspects of care through Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Beginning with just a few staff members challenging others to consider the value of cultural competency to the establishment of a DEI Committee, Cummins continues to acknowledge the need for health equity and elimination of health disparities. We invite you to read our DEI statement, followed by our strategic actions.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

Cummins Behavioral Health Systems, Inc. (Cummins) aims to center diversity, equity, and inclusion in all areas of daily work. A strong commitment to learning and understanding allows our organization to value cultural humility and accountability to all people. Respecting and acknowledging others’ experiences that are different from our own, guides our personal and professional behavior in establishing a culture of inclusion and belonging. We seek to fix power imbalances through overcoming the influence of institutional, systemic, and historical influences of inequity.

Cummins is dedicated to the enhancement of cultural knowledge and awareness for all. To achieve this commitment, Cummins will develop and maintain a high performing workforce that delivers culturally responsive services, improves outcomes for the individuals we serve, and reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

Diversity

Diversity in a behavioral health center acknowledges that each person brings unique perspectives and needs, and it emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment that respects and values these differences. This includes providing equitable access to services, promoting culturally sensitive care, and fostering an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and support for all individuals seeking behavioral health services.

Equity

Equity recognizes the importance of addressing systemic biases, discrimination, and social determinants of health that can impact mental health outcomes. By striving for equity, the center aims to ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve optimal mental health and well-being, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Inclusion

Inclusion refers to the practice of creating a welcoming and supportive environment that actively involves and values individuals from diverse backgrounds. It goes beyond mere diversity and extends to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, feels respected, accepted, and empowered to participate fully in the center's programs, services, and decision-making processes.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategic Actions

The following DEI strategic initiatives are necessary actions for Cummins to achieve the goals established in the DEI statement.

  • Improve the quality of care and recognize the increased diversity of consumers by using National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (The National CLAS Standards) as a benchmark for best practices.
  • Build upon past cultural competency efforts, while engaging personnel via modes of communication (social media, email, newsletters, etc.)
  • Collaborate with all departments and stakeholders to establish an inclusive culture of belonging.
  • Bridge gaps of care by actively increasing underserved demographics, participating in community events, and regularly reviewing intake and referral data.
  • Assess and revise current processes and policies ensuring they are equitable and manageable.
  • Create an anti-bias/anti-racist workplace by establishing a simple and fair reporting process.

Interested in more information? Click here to contact our DEI Coordinator, Shadra D. Smith (she/her).