Persistent Health Care Discrimination Challenges in the US

USA: Efforts to combat health care discrimination in U.S. have fallen short, with a recent DataHaven report indicating that between 15% and 20% of Black and/or low-income adults in certain Connecticut areas have experienced some form of discrimination in health care. 

Nationally, a Compassion & Choices poll found that 25% of respondents, and notably 35% of Black individuals, 29% of Hispanics, and 41% of people identifying as LGBT, reported facing discrimination. This pervasive issue often leads individuals to forgo or delay necessary medical care.

Surprising Findings Raise Concerns

The findings from the Compassion & Choices poll surprised experts, including Amy Simon, a partner at the polling firm Goodman Simon Strategic Research. Simon emphasized the significance of the data, revealing that millions of people across the country are grappling with health care discrimination. 

This discrimination, whether experienced personally or witnessed, has become a significant barrier to accessing timely and essential medical services.

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Health care affordability and insurance types play a role in exacerbating discrimination issues. Earlier this year, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed legislation aimed at enhancing health care affordability, prohibiting facility fees, and implementing a drug discount card program. 

Despite these initiatives, the financial resources required for successful implementation pose a potential challenge.

Addressing Discrimination through Access and Cultural Intelligence

Kim Callinan, President and CEO of Compassion & Choices, suggests that reducing discrimination requires ensuring high-quality health care is accessible throughout the entire state, not just in wealthier neighborhoods. Callinan advocates for clinicians to enhance their cultural intelligence, facilitating effective interactions with patients from diverse backgrounds. 

Additionally, prioritizing the recruitment of a more diverse clinician pool can contribute to improved representation and patient-provider relationships.

A 2022 Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut survey indicated that 57% of people support expanding the state’s Medicaid program to include all immigrants. The hope is that such expansion can mitigate health disparities and discrimination in various parts of the state. As efforts continue to address these systemic issues, the focus remains on fostering inclusivity, cultural competence, and equitable access to quality health care for all.

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