Impact of Perceived Racism on Healthcare Access Among Older Minority Adults.

INTRODUCTION

Older minority individuals are less likely to receive adequate health care than their white counterparts. This study investigates whether perceived racism is associated with delayed/forgone care among minority older adults, and whether poor doctor communication mediates this relationship.

METHODS

Study cohort consisted of minority participants, aged ≥65 years, in the 2015 California Health Interview Survey (N=1,756). Authors obtained data in November 2017, and statistical analyses were performed from February to April 2018. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted with relevant covariates, including insurance coverage, years living in the U.S., and language. A mediation analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

Among minority older individuals, perceived racism was significantly associated with delayed/forgone care (AOR=3.92, 95% CI=1.38, 11.15, p=0.010). Poor doctor communication significantly and partially mediated the relationship (AOR=3.64, 95% CI=1.30, 10.21, p=0.014), accounting for 9.9% of the total effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Perceived racism may contribute to health disparities for older minority individuals in part through doctors communicating messages that discourage adequate utilization of health care. Future research should explore culturally sensitive communication skills that reduce this barrier to receiving adequate health care.