Dr. Jillian A. Rose-Smith, Vice-President (VP) & Chief Health Equity Officer for NY-based HSS | Hospital for Special Surgery, was instrumental in building the infrastructure to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion for patients and colleagues. She led the implementation and optimization of the Electronic Medical Record system to collect data on race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, and social determinants of health for patients. This data is critical to identify and assess gaps in delivering quality healthcare to all patients. Jillian played an integral role in the creation of the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, which established mandatory inclusive culture training across the enterprise, a supplier diversity program, Employee Resource Groups, and educational programs for underrepresented minorities in orthopedics. She is currently in the process of launching the Office of Health Equity which deepens HSS’ commitment to addressing health disparities.

Jillian worked with organizational leaders to include diversity as a core operating value and to create and implement a strategic framework to support this value. Goals for DEI at HSS include creating universal respect, addressing disparities of care, and improving diversity in leadership. Jillian is an innovative and courageous leader who creates inclusive spaces and leads challenging conversations about structural and systemic changes needed to enhance health equity.

Favorite Quote: My life’s mission is to be a catalyst for change in the life of others, doing this work brings about needed change. It allows us and others to be our best selves and bring our best selves into the spaces where we live work and play to optimize our wellness and well-being. Standing on the sidelines and watching people die due to disparities is not an option we all have a part to play. — Jillian A. Rose-Smith