Implicit Bias Continues to Affect Patient Care
Understanding and addressing implicit bias is key to improving the patient experience.
Implicit bias refers to the unconscious attitudes and stereotypes that can influence an individual’s thoughts, actions, and decisions. Implicit biases can have a significant impact on the patient experience, as they can influence the way that healthcare providers interact with and treat patients.
Research has shown that implicit biases can lead to differences in the quality of care that patients receive, as well as the level of respect and empathy shown to patients.
Additionally, implicit biases can contribute to health disparities, as certain groups may be more likely to experience negative consequences as a result of these biases.
The results of a MITRE-Harris Poll Survey on Patient Experience [1], found that 40% of patients across all demographic groups reported perceiving bias from their healthcare providers.
While Hispanic and black patients were particularly affected, other groups such as those with chronic illness, family caregivers, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community also reported facing bias, doubt, and language barriers when seeking medical treatment.
Nearly half of the survey’s nearly 2,000 respondents said they felt ignored, dismissed, or not believed by their healthcare providers. This figure was even higher among Hispanic patients, with six in 10 reporting these negative experiences.
The survey also found that clinicians were making assumptions about their patients without asking for their input, with half of respondents reporting this occurrence. These findings suggest that both explicit and implicit biases may be contributing to negative patient experiences.
It is important for healthcare providers to be aware of their own implicit biases and to take steps to address and mitigate their impact on the patient experience. This may include training on cultural competency and diversity, as well as ongoing self-reflection and self-awareness.