Racism in healthcare is a substantial issue that affects the lives of several individuals. Racist language, verbal and physical abuse are common in the living area of a hospital. Patients have been denied access to services, medications and dignity. Racism in healthcare affects every aspect of patient care from the first trip prior release.

The first step to combating racism in health care is to tackle the problems that impact the everyday experience of patients. Racism in healthcare begins with a mindset change from the staff who are seen what is racism as having an effect on the way patients are treated. According to a report published by the National Association of Hispanic Health Professionals (NASHP), health care employees inadvertently perpetuate racism by using gestures, words and behaviours that target and harm the racial and cultural groups in their own care. Nurses and other specialists must learn how to work with all people instead of focusing on a demographic.

It is also important for healthcare workers to be mindful that they aren’t immune from these types of prejudices. According to a report published by the American Medical Association, 75 percent of doctors feel that they treat most patients with the same disrespect. Furthermore, as stated by the American Psychological Association, bias against patients using a specific race is as common as prejudice against any other race. Research indicates that healthcare workers often fail to set higher standards of maintenance according to race or ethnicity. Healthcare providers are legally bound to maintain adequate working conditions for all individuals, irrespective of their race or ethnicity.

Racism in healthcare has a far bigger impact on patients than the true treatment they receive. Many patients are subjected to humiliating or degrading treatment, that makes it impossible for them to keep some sense of control over their own body or their lifetime. Racism in health care also effects patients psychologically, preventing them from feeling safe or valued within the medical environment. Physicians and other professionals who see this racism don’t offer a relaxing atmosphere for patients and also don’t make them feel like they are part of a system that respects their wellness and well-being above all else.

Healthcare workers are generally required to function in trying, potentially dangerous environments. Because of their surroundings, these individuals may experience greater degrees of anxiety, anxiety, and burnout. This may have adverse psychological effects on patients, which makes it hard for individuals to form bonds and connect with fellow workers, causing problems with how they react to stress-related illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

The effects of racism in healthcare are particularly troubling because racism can go undetected or unexpressed by the patient’s family and other caregivers. Often times, individuals in healthcare will be the very first people to encounter patients who are having different hardships. According to the Emory University School of Nursing, healthcare employees are forced to help these individuals overcome the trauma caused by their disorders, but they might do this without learning about cultural norms and biases that lead to bad treatment choices and inadequate care. By changing and addressing healthcare worker’s behaviors and attitudes toward individuals of all races, cultures, and backgrounds, healthcare workers can ensure that everyone gets the care that they need and deserve.