Health Inequities and Structural Racism

Abstract

Race is not a valid biological concept but is a social construct that gives or denies benefits and privileges. The historical categorization of identifying non-white people and groups as “other” (e.g., African American, indigenous, people of color, etc.) has adversely impacted the health of these groups in the United States. Certain ethnic and racial minority groups have higher rates of chronic disease and greater mortality due to social and structural determinants of health. Structural racism is recognized as a determinant of equity within a society and in health care contexts, it is the differential access to health care services and opportunities by race. An understanding of these influences and acknowledging the impact on the personal history of patients and care environments is necessary. Strategies to mitigate and reduce health disparities include trauma-informed care, addressing unconscious and implicit bias, community health worker, and a diversified workforce.