This course provides Maryland nurses with education on structural racism in health care and its relevance to the state’s one-time training requirement for license renewal after April 1, 2026. Nurses examine how mutually reinforcing systems can affect health access, health conditions, care experiences, and continuity of care, then apply practical nursing actions involving assessment, communication, documentation, referral, escalation, and professional judgment.
Developed by: Scott Strachan RN, BSN
Target Audience
Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses practicing in Maryland or seeking education related to Maryland’s structural racism training requirement for health occupation license renewal.
Teaching Method
Self-directed learning completed independently, with scenario-based reflection.
Overview
Maryland law defines structural racism as the totality of ways societies foster racial discrimination through mutually reinforcing systems of housing, education, employment, earnings, benefits, credit, media, health care, and criminal justice. This course uses that statutory definition as the foundation for examining how systems, institutional practices, historical conditions, and access barriers may influence health and health care.
The course distinguishes structural racism from individual prejudice and implicit bias and examines how structural conditions may affect transportation, medication access, housing stability, communication, referrals, continuity of care, and the ability to follow a plan of care. Learners consider how labels such as “noncompliant” may fail to describe the barriers affecting a patient’s actions or care experience.
Practical nursing application focuses on recognizing potential structural barriers without making assumptions about an individual patient. The course addresses role-appropriate assessment, respectful communication, objective documentation, use of available language and support resources, communication with the health care team, escalation of identified concerns, and participation in workplace processes that support equitable care. The course is developed for education and submission for Maryland Board of Nursing recognition review. It does not state or imply current recognition or approval.
Learner Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the learner will be able to:
Disclosure
The planner(s) and author(s) of this educational activity have disclosed that there are no relevant financial relationships with any commercial interests related to the content of this course. This course is developed for educational purposes and does not receive commercial support.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this course is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the content is not guaranteed to be free from errors or omissions. Participants are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional for specific advice related to their circumstances. The creators and presenters of this course disclaim any liability for decisions made based on the information provided.
We will send you a one-time access code.