Assessment of learning health system science competency in the equity and justice domain

Abstract

Seven knowledge domains were originally defined for the learning health system (LHS) scientist. To assess proficiency in each of these domains, we developed and published an assessment tool for use by emerging LHS scientists and training programs. (LHS, October 2022). In mid-2022, the AHRQ adopted an eighth LHS knowledge domain, Equity and Justice. The addition of this eighth domain emphasizes the importance and centrality of equity in the LHS and improvement science. To extend our prior LHS competency assessment, we developed a proficiency assessment for the new equity and justice domain. Content experts and trainees iteratively defined, reviewed, and edited the assessment criteria. The items were developed by trainees and experts at one LHS training center with experience conducting research focused on healthcare inequities among marginalized populations. The proficiency assessment criteria for the Equity domain apply the same four levels of mastery: “no exposure,” “foundational awareness,” “emerging,” and “proficient” as were used for original competencies. LHS training programs can use these proficiency criteria to monitor skills among emerging scientists across the eight domains, with particular attention to equity and justice.