Cocreating a Responsive Organization: Disclosure and Responsivity in Veterinary Ophthalmology.

Abstract

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become defining priorities within veterinary ophthalmology, as reflected in editorial leadership, association-level initiatives, and professional development programs. To translate these professional commitments into daily practice requires more than isolated efforts by individual practitioners. This paper proposes disclosure-responsivity cycles as a practical framework to empower leaders to embed DEI concepts into their daily operations. Disclosure is an individual's decision to share personal or professional information (e.g., acknowledge medical errors or reveal identity characteristics). Responsivity describes the degree to which individuals feel supported after disclosure, both interpersonally and organizationally. Research shows that when organizations are consistently responsive, disclosure reduces psychological strain, builds trust, and enhances inclusivity. The key challenge, therefore, is to cocreate organizations that support disclosure with fair and reliable responsivity. Drawing on organizational theory, change management, and veterinary literature, this paper identifies four domains where disclosure-responsivity cycles can be institutionalized: shared vision, communication channels, competency development, and policy transparency. Together, these domains create interdependent systems that embed DEI into daily practice. For veterinary ophthalmologists, this framework offers a path to cultivate organizations that are adaptive, inclusive, and resilient.