Background In 2020, Chicago healthcare providers published a statement declaring racism a public health crisis. This statement was the genesis of a movement which led to the creation of the Racial Equity in Healthcare Progress Report (Progress Report), a 34-item assessment and long-term accountability tool, documenting organizational progress towards achieving racial health equity. The Progress Report was piloted in over 150 Illinois hospitals and is now being tested nationally.

Objectives To test, scale and disseminate the Progress Report nationally across various healthcare organizations.

Methods A convenience sample of healthcare organizations were recruited nationally through presentations, organizational partnerships, and social media advertisements. Healthcare organizations completed the Progress Report using a web-based survey.

Results The Progress Reports submitted represent 135 health care organizations and clinics (e.g., hospitals and health systems, federally qualified health centers, community-based organizations, managed-care organizations). The average total score (0=Not in Place, 1=Socialization, 2= Initiation, 3=Piloting, 4=Implementation, 5=Best Practice) was 2.26, indicating that most organizations are in the ‘piloting phase’ and have yet to standardize or implement equity initiatives across all target patient demographics. The highest average score was in the composite metric ‘Community Partnerships’ and lowest in composite metric ‘Quality Improvement Practices.’

Conclusions & Implications This tool provides organizations with a baseline assessment of practices that can advance racial and health equity efforts. The results suggest health care organizations across the country are beginning to pilot equity initiatives to improve healthcare for marginalized populations.