44 min listen
How effects of racism were mistaken for “race” in clinical algorithms: What clinicians should know
How effects of racism were mistaken for “race” in clinical algorithms: What clinicians should know
ratings:
Length:
64 minutes
Released:
Dec 19, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode
Description
For years, when physicians order tests to assess lung function, or blood work to determine kidney function, or look up guidelines for managing high blood pressure the results have been adjusted for race. This practice has been based on studies that seemed to indicate that the same result means different things if the patient is Black vs white. So, for instance, an “uncorrected’ creatinine of 1.6 was thought to be less concerning in a Black than white patient as Blacks were thought to have greater muscle mass (not true). These correction factors masked underlying environmental and social stressors disproportionately affecting Black Americans. Regrettably they also contributed to delays in care for chronic conditions, as Black patients had to be sicker than white patients to trigger therapeutic interventions – further exacerbating disparities. We talk with two physicians who lead an anti-racism equity committee based in a Chicago VA hospital to understand the history and science that led to these “corrections,” and how they have successfully been removing them through education and advocacy across their organization and nationally. Their activism is especially meaningful because of its immediate, tangible, benefit for affected patients. The views expressed in this episode are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States government.
Released:
Dec 19, 2023
Format:
Podcast episode
Titles in the series (49)
Part 1: Pursuing a Dream and a Calling: Dr. LaMenta Conway shares what she experienced and learned growing up in an economically and socially marginalized community in Chicago, pursuing a dream to become a physician. by On Becoming a Healer