Understanding Bias in Healthcare

A systematic pattern of thinking errors, not random, that the brain uses to process information quickly, often unconsciously.

A cognitive bias where decisions are based on the most readily available information in memory (e.g., recent, memorable experiences).

Preconceived notions or judgements affecting medical decisions, leading to unequal treatment and impacting health outcomes.

Prejudice or preconceived notion based on social groups or characteristics (e.g., race or gender), often impacting how individuals are treated.

A concept constructed by society, not a biological reality, that categorizes people based on perceived differences, leading to societal biases and inequalities.

The results or consequences of healthcare, ranging from disease prevention to treatment effectiveness.

Fair and just access to quality healthcare for all, ensuring that disparities are addressed to promote health for everyone.

Harmful impacts on individuals or groups because of stereotypes, unconscious biases, or prejudice in healthcare decisions, leading to unequal treatment and poorer outcomes.

Research shows that certain social groups, such as people with disabilities, those from rural areas, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, people with lower socioeconomic status, older adults, recent immigrants, and those with limited English proficiency, experience worse healthcare compared to other groups. This is due to biases in the system, which are not always intentional.

Biased treatment in healthcare can lead to wrong diagnoses, inadequate or delayed treatment, reduced access to care, increased mortality, higher morbidity rates, and negative patient experiences.

A specific type of bias in healthcare where racial and ethnic groups experience unequal treatment.

Healthcare biases aren't always deliberate; they can be unconscious or subtle.

Bias in healthcare negatively affects patient experience (stress, distrust, disrespect, decreased return to care), and it is connected to health outcomes (poor diagnosis, poor treatment, and increased mortality).

Differences in healthcare quality and access based on race, impacting Black, Native American, Alaskan Native, Hispanic, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander patients negatively compared to White patients.

Research studying how well doctors focus on a patient's needs during medical visits, like shared decision making, doctor-patient communication, and overall satisfaction.

A flawed method applied to eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) calculations for Black patients that assumed higher muscle mass, causing incorrect results and potentially delaying needed treatment and organ transplants.

A measurement of how efficiently the kidneys filter blood.

eGFR calculations historically included a flawed "race correction" to account for an assumption of higher muscle mass in Black individuals; this assumed difference proved to be false and caused misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.

Despite commonly held beliefs, there is more genetic variation found within a single "race" than between different "races".

Prejudices held by medical professionals can subconsciously influence their decisions, leading to disparities in treatment and diagnosis.

Sickle cell disease isn't tied to "race" but location. It's more frequent in areas where malaria is prevalent, as it offers some protection against the disease.

Prejudiced beliefs and attitudes that healthcare professionals consciously or unconsciously hold about a specific group, often based on race or ethnicity, leading to unequal treatment and outcomes.

A process of accelerated aging and health deterioration in Black women due to the constant stress of racism and discrimination. This stress can impact their physical and mental health, leading to higher rates of chronic diseases and poorer overall health.

The unequal treatment experienced by patients based on their race, specifically when their race does not match their physician's race. This can result in shorter appointments, lower patient satisfaction, and less positive interactions.

Medical instruments and techniques based on faulty assumptions about racial differences. These tools often reinforce prejudices and can lead to inaccurate diagnoses and harmful treatments.

The number of mothers who die from pregnancy-related causes per 100,000 live births.

The number of infants who die before their first birthday per 1,000 live births.

Efforts to ensure fair and just access to quality healthcare for all, addressing disparities and promoting health outcomes.

Strategies to help healthcare professionals become aware of their own biases and avoid making assumptions. This includes promoting critical thinking, asking thoughtful questions, and relying on data, not hunches, to make informed decisions.

Having a diverse group of health professionals from different social backgrounds improves the quality of care for all patients.

When interacting with someone from a different background, focus on truly understanding their experience, not just preparing your response.

Focusing on the patient's unique needs and preferences during medical visits, including shared decision-making and open communication.