Racial Bias in Clinician Assessment of Patient Credibility: A Study Reveals Troubling Findings
A recent study published in the open-access journal PLOS One sheds light on a concerning issue in healthcare – racial bias in clinician assessment of patient credibility. The study, conducted by Mary Catherine Beach of Johns Hopkins University, analyzed over 13 million electronic health records (EHR) notes from a large health system in the mid-Atlantic United States. The researchers used artificial intelligence (AI) tools to identify language in the notes that suggested clinicians doubted the sincerity or narrative competence of the patients.
The findings of the study were alarming. Clinicians were more likely to express doubt or disbelief in the medical records of Black patients compared to white patients. Specifically, notes about Black patients had higher odds of containing terms undermining the patients’ credibility, sincerity, or competence. Additionally, these notes were less likely to contain language supporting credibility compared to those written about white or Asian patients.
The implications of this bias are significant. Language in EHR notes that undermines patient credibility may contribute to ongoing racial disparities in healthcare. Patients, particularly Black individuals, may feel dismissed or not taken seriously by healthcare professionals. The authors of the study suggest that medical training should address unconscious biases, and AI tools used in writing medical notes should be programmed to avoid biased language.
While the study had limitations, such as focusing on only one health system and not examining clinician characteristics like race, age, or gender, the authors believe that the findings represent just the “tip of an iceberg.” By raising awareness of credibility bias in healthcare documentation, the goal is to eliminate this harmful practice and ensure that all patients receive equitable and respectful care.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of addressing racial bias in healthcare and working towards a more inclusive and unbiased healthcare system. By recognizing and rectifying these biases, we can strive towards providing all patients, regardless of race or background, with the quality care and respect they deserve.
