5. a. Each clinical laboratory shall implement an evidence-based cultural competency training program for all staff members employed by or working under the supervision of the clinical laboratory who have direct contact with patients and are responsible for collecting race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity information from patients.

b. Each cultural competency training program implemented pursuant to subsection a. of this section shall include training on how to collect race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity in a culturally competent and sensitive manner. This may include the following topics:

(1) common terminology for race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity data;

(2) information on the relationship between patient health and collecting race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity data;

(3) information on how race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity data will be used;

(4) information on how to navigate discomfort in patients and staff when asking patients for their race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity information; and

(5) information on how to create an inclusive and affirming environment for all patients.

c. Each staff member who is employed by or working under the supervision of the clinical laboratory, has direct contact with patients, and is responsible for collecting race and ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity information from patients, shall:

(1) complete the cultural competency training program implemented pursuant to subsection a. of this section at such times and intervals as the clinical laboratory shall require; and

(2) complete a cultural competency refresher course at least once biennially if completion of the course is deemed necessary by the clinical laboratory.

L.2021, c.454, s.5; amended 2022, c.44, s.4.