Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Perceived Healthcare Discrimination and Health Outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Experiencing discrimination in the healthcare system may have important implications for health outcomes among racial and ethnic minoritized groups and is a key factor in the disparities observed in healthcare across different races and ethnicities. This study's objective is to examine the relationship between perceived healthcare discrimination and self-reported health status among racial and ethnic minorities.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional analysis of data from the "All of Us" research program. The study uses the Discrimination in Medical Settings Scale and Overall Health Survey to assess healthcare discrimination and health status. Multivariable logistic regression models were used, adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Adults 18 years or older with self-identified racial and ethnic backgrounds who completed surveys on healthcare discrimination and health status were included. Participants identified as Asian, Black or African American (AA), Hispanic or Latino, non-Hispanic White (NHW), Multiracial, and Other.

RESULTS

The study analyzed data from 92,321 participants, among whom 78% were NHW, Hispanic/Latinos (8%), Black/AAs (7%), and others (7%). Approximately 49% (3070) of Black/AA, 39% (2839) Hispanic/Latinos, and 49% (768) of Multiracial individuals reported experiencing healthcare discrimination, along with 35% (25338) of Whites. Participants who experienced healthcare discrimination had higher odds of self-reported poor health status (aOR 2.19, 95%CI 2.12-2.26). These associations persisted across all analyzed racial and ethnic groups in adjusted models.

DISCUSSION

This study highlights the association between perceived healthcare discrimination and poor self-reported health among racial and ethnic minoritized individuals. Implementing strategies to reduce discrimination within the healthcare system, such as cultural humility training for all staff and inclusive healthcare policies, is critical for improving healthcare quality and health equity.