Using virtual reality simulation to address racism in a healthcare setting

Racism in healthcare remains a pressing challenge, affecting both patients and providers. Unity Health Toronto sought an innovative solution to empower its staff to tackle internal & external biases, privilege, and microaggressions—and turned to Bodyswaps’ immersive scenarios.
Lets Talk About Race_ Recognising Privilege _ Abeeku _ Rooftop

The pilot

Over two months, 33 staff members at Unity Health Toronto, including both leaders and frontline workers engaged with three of our Let's Talk About Race modules:

  • Recognizing Privilege
  • Bias as a Barrier
  • Navigating Microaggressions

The study used two formats: a fully immersive VR experience via Oculus headsets and a screen-based version accessible on computers. Participants practiced scenarios, reflected on their biases, and received feedback to build confidence in addressing racism at work.

Armed with the techniques from my recent training, I was able to react [to a situation involving racism] in a way that allowed me to call out the behaviour, instead of being a passive bystander.

Participant

Unity Health Toronto

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