In alignment with the AAO’s core value, “We embrace diversity and inclusion,” in 2022 the AAO House of Delegates passed a resolution to encourage AAO leaders to take an AAO-recommended implicit bias training course and also, to make such a course available to all members.
Implicit or unconscious bias refers to the attitudes or stereotypes that affect our understanding, actions, and decisions in an unconscious manner. Implicit bias training helps make people aware that unconscious bias exists and allows them to take steps to reduce the likelihood that bias will impact their decisions. Participants in implicit bias training also learn that even when they do not consciously endorse a label or stereotype, it can influence their attitudes and behavior outside their conscious awareness.
The AAO hosted and recorded an implicit bias webinar (see below). In addition, the AAO Special Committee on Inclusion and Engagement has identified additional courses that members should consider as they look to enhance their awareness of their unconscious biases. These courses and trainings may also be eligible for CE credit as part of your dental or orthodontic licensure requirements.
Some state dental boards require implicit bias or related training as part of their licensure renewal process. If you are licensed in the District of Columbia, Illinois, Michigan, Maryland or Oregon, such requirements will apply for your license renewal.
View State-by-State Requirements
Courses and training programs include:
Cultural Humility: Understanding our Cultural Framework and Biases
Hosted by: American Association of Orthodontists
CE credit: 1.25 hours
Format: presented as a webinar March 31, 2023; recorded and available via OnDemand CE
Cost: free to AAO members
Access the Recorded Lecture
Conscious and Unconscious Bias in Dental Practice Ethical Considerations
Hosted by: American Dental Association
CE credit: 2 hours
Format: recorded webinar
Cost: free and open to all ADA members who have a subscription plan for the ADA’s online education resources
Learn more
Building a Culture of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Healthcare
Hosted by: Traliant
CE credit: varies by individual courses taken
Format: online, self-paced training program
Cost: varies by organization
Learn More: For information about specific Traliant solutions for you or your practice, contact Carolyn Thiel at [email protected] or 213-712-8637.
Diversity & Inclusion: Unconscious Bias Awareness
Hosted by: Compliance Training Group
CE credit: 1.5 hours
Format: online course
Cost: $29.99
Learn more
