Racism in health care is a substantial problem that affects the lives of several patients. Racist language, verbal and physical abuse are common from the living area of a hospital. Patients are denied access to medications, services and dignity. Racism in healthcare affects every aspect of patient care from the initial visit prior discharge.

The very first step to fighting racism in health care is to address the problems that impact the everyday experience of individuals. Racism in healthcare begins with a mindset shift in the staff who are seen as having an effect on how patients are treated. According to a report released by the National Association of Hispanic Health Professionals (NASHP), health care workers inadvertently perpetuate racism using words, gestures and behaviours that target and hurt the racial and cultural groups in their own care. Nurses and other professionals should learn how to work with all people instead of focusing on a market.

It’s also important for healthcare workers to be aware that they aren’t immune from these prejudices. According to a report published by the American Medical Association, 75 percent of physicians feel that they treat all patients with the identical disrespect. Furthermore, as stated by the American Psychological Association, bias against patients using a specific race is equally as common as prejudice against another race. Research indicates that healthcare workers often fail to establish higher standards of care based on race or ethnicity. Healthcare providers are legally bound to maintain decent working conditions for all people, irrespective of their race or ethnicity.

Racism in healthcare has a much bigger impact on patients than the how to stop racism essay actual treatment they get. Many patients are exposed to humiliating or degrading treatment, making it impossible for them to keep any sense of control over their own body or their life. Racism in health care also affects patients emotionally, preventing them from feeling valued or safe within the health care environment. Doctors and other professionals who see this racism fail to offer a relaxing atmosphere for patients and fail to make them feel as though they are part of a system that respects their wellness and well-being above everyone else.

Healthcare workers are generally required to function in stressful, potentially harmful environments. Because of their environment, these individuals may experience higher rates of anxiety, anxiety, and burnout. This can have negative psychological effects on patients, which makes it hard for individuals to form bonds and connect with fellow employees, causing problems with how they react to stress-related illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

The effects of racism in health care are particularly upsetting because racism can go unnoticed or unexpressed from the individual’s family and other health professionals. Quite often, people in healthcare will be the very first people to encounter individuals that are having different hardships. According to the Emory University School of Nursing, healthcare employees are compelled to assist these individuals overcome the trauma caused by their own illnesses, but they may do this without learning about cultural norms and biases that result in bad treatment decisions and insufficient care. By changing and addressing healthcare worker’s behaviors and attitudes toward individuals of all races, cultures, and backgrounds, healthcare workers can make sure that everyone gets the care that they need and deserve.