How woke is Cerner?

Introduction

Oracle Cerner has made a name for itself in healthcare technology, but lately, its focus has shifted from innovation to activism. From financial contributions supporting social justice causes to bold LGBTQ+ initiatives, Oracle Cerner’s progressive agenda is front and center. 

This company offers a textbook case for those keeping an eye on corporate wokeness. Let’s break down where Oracle Cerner stands and what it means for those who prefer businesses to stay in their lane.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

Oracle Cerner has poured resources into progressive initiatives, with its efforts to expand healthcare access taking the spotlight. According to the Oracle Health Foundation, its mission is to “advance health equity and improve access to care for underserved populations through focused giving.” The company’s global giving strategy reinforces this approach by partnering with communities to address “systemic challenges,” a term that has become a buzzword for many progressive causes.

This financial alignment with social justice shows that Oracle Cerner’s priorities have drifted too far from its role in healthcare technology.

Prioritisation of DEI Policies

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) isn’t just a goal for Oracle Cerner; it’s a core value. The company proudly proclaims that “inclusion fuels innovation,” highlighting its commitment to diverse identities, backgrounds, and experiences. That sounds good until you dig into specifics, like their promotion of gender-affirming healthcare. Oracle insists such practices are “essential to fostering inclusive workplaces.”

This approach leaves room for debate: Is it about innovation or checking boxes to align with a cultural agenda?

Mandatory Training Sessions

Based on available information, no specific evidence exists that Oracle Cerner mandates training sessions on social activism topics such as unconscious bias or critical race theory. The existence, nature, and extent of such training within the company are unknown.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

Oracle Cerner isn’t shy about waving the rainbow flag. It hosted a 24-hour Global Pride event celebrating diversity and solidarity among LGBTQ+ employees and allies. In addition, its LGBTQ+ employee group, OPEN, has won accolades for its efforts, demonstrating Oracle’s commitment to fostering inclusivity in the workplace.

But for all the fanfare, is this true advocacy or corporate grandstanding? This level of activism might be off-putting for consumers who value neutrality or hold more traditional values.

Marketing and Branding

Oracle Cerner’s marketing is infused with social justice themes. The company openly states that its patient engagement solutions “must address systemic inequalities to create equitable healthcare experiences.” Furthermore, it frequently highlights its DEI accomplishments in campaigns that feel as much about activism as they are about healthcare.

While this messaging resonates with progressive audiences, it can alienate consumers who prefer brands that stick to their core services. For Oracle Cerner, healthcare seems like a backdrop to the broader social agenda.

Conclusion

Oracle Cerner represents awakened corporate culture, with DEI policies, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and equity-focused marketing taking center stage. While these efforts earn applause from progressives, they polarise others who value neutrality or traditional business values. If you’re tired of companies doubling as platforms for activism, Oracle Cerner may leave you looking for alternatives. On the other hand, if you believe corporations should champion progressive causes, this might be your ideal brand.