Driving Change: A Conversation About HBA's Expanded Think Tank Initiative
The newly reimagined HBA Think Tank is poised to lead the charge in transforming the healthcare industry through actionable insights. Building on the legacy of the Global Equity Think Tank, this expanded initiative now focuses on four pillars; Representation in Leadership, Amplifying Women of Color, Health & Wellness in the Workplace, and Financial Acumen for Career Growth. With a broader focus and an ambitious mission, the Think Tank offers new opportunities for both members and nonmembers to engage, collaborate, and create lasting impact.
HBA Think Tank Global Director LaToya Tapscott shares her vision for the Think Tank, outlines plans for the coming year, and discusses how individuals and organizations can get involved in the movement.
Q: Starting with the big picture, can you tell us more about the mission of the expanded Think Tank?
A: The HBA Think Tank's mission is to drive systemic change through data-driven insights and actionable strategies that advance opportunities for women in healthcare. Our new Pillars reflect the complex challenges women face and our commitment to address them holistically.
For example, we recognize that women often shoulder caregiving responsibilities and face unique health challenges that impact their professional success. That's why ensuring access to workplace wellness programs isn't just a benefit—it's a necessity. Similarly, financial literacy is crucial for career growth. We've seen women hesitate to negotiate salaries or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities due to gaps in financial understanding. We've also found that women who manage P&Ls for their organizations often have faster tracks to C-suite roles, making financial acumen essential for advancement.
Q: How is the Think Tank planning to expand its influence and reach and make data and insights more accessible?
A: We’re expanding through public programming, partnerships, and thought leadership opportunities—introducing new products and engagement opportunities for the Think Tank. One major initiative is our quarterly public Solution Summits, which were previously exclusive to Think Tank members. These summits now provide actionable solutions to systemic challenges through thought-provoking keynotes, engaging panels, and collaborative workshops. Participants can expect tools and insights they can take back to their organizations to drive change. Additionally, we’re producing co-branded reports, collaborating with organizations to broaden our industry reach, and offering public access to events, research, webinars, and articles. Our goal is to make these insights actionable for a wider audience, not just Think Tank members.
Q: You recently wrote an article that highlights key data from Deloitte’s Women in the Workplace Report, such as the striking disparity where, for every 100 men who receive opportunities, only 81 women do—and the numbers are even lower for Black and Latina women. How does the Think Tank’s benchmarking survey help companies address these gender disparities and close the gaps?
Our benchmarking surveys provide data that companies can use to identify gaps in leadership, representation, workplace equity, and advancement opportunities for women. For example, we offer insights into how women of color experience workplace barriers compared to other groups. Companies can use these findings to develop targeted strategies to address disparities and track their progress year over year.
Q: What opportunities are there for people and companies to engage with the Think Tank's work?
A: Companies can engage through corporate membership, sponsorship opportunities, and collaboration on research initiatives. For individuals, we're launching a subscription-based newsletter in 2025 which will offer exclusive insights and updates. There are also opportunities to co-author white papers, host webinars, or partner on market research initiatives at the corporate level.
Q: What makes companies want to join the Think Tank?
A: Companies are drawn to the Think Tank because they recognize that a commitment to equity is a commitment to their bottom line. There's a direct connection between creating an equitable workplace and organizational success. Beyond this business imperative, companies join us for our data-driven insights, exclusive networking opportunities, and the chance to influence industry-wide change. Whether you're a large corporation looking to showcase your leadership in this space, or a smaller company wanting to learn from others and gain visibility, we offer valuable benefits – from custom reports to co-branded content to leadership roles on our advisory committees.
Q: Looking ahead, what's your long-term vision for the Think Tank?
A: In the long term, I see the Think Tank becoming the go-to source for data and solutions that drive meaningful change for women in healthcare. I want its legacy to be one of actionable impact—really breaking down barriers, closing gaps, and creating a healthcare industry where women's advancement is the standard and not the exception.
The HBA Think Tank is more than a hub for research—it's a driving force for systemic change in healthcare. Whether you’re an individual looking to stay informed or a company ready to lead the charge, there’s a place for you in this growing movement.
Want to get involved? Email us at thinktank@hbanet.org and discover how you can help create a healthcare industry where women thrive.