Short Wave A Key To Black Infant Survival? Black Doctors
Sep 18, 2020
Rachel Hardeman, a reproductive health equity researcher and professor at the University of Minnesota, unveils startling statistics on Black infant mortality rates in the U.S. She reveals how the race of a doctor can significantly influence survival outcomes for Black newborns. The conversation delves into systemic racism's effects on healthcare access and quality, the urgency of increasing the representation of Black physicians, and the innovative changes necessary in medical education to improve health equity.
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Race Concordance and Infant Mortality
- Black newborns cared for by Black physicians experience significantly lower mortality rates.
- This disparity is especially pronounced in complex birthing situations.
Historical Context of Racism in Healthcare
- The historical context of racism in healthcare, including slavery and medical experimentation, contributes to present-day disparities.
- This isn't about individual physician bias, but systemic issues embedded in healthcare systems.
Addressing Health Inequities
- Diversifying the physician workforce is crucial, but not enough to solve health inequities.
- Improve medical training to equip all physicians with the tools to care for diverse patients and address systemic racism.