Question

Explain "stereotype bias" and how it pertains to doctor/patient relationship.

How does this differ from overt racism ?

At least two examples

Answer 1

Although stereotypes may not be consciously endorsed, their mere existence influences how information about an individual is processed and leads to unintended biases in decision-making. This phenomenon tends to occur across all instances of social interaction, including that between a doctor and a patient. Doctors may rely on stereotypes during decision making, given the uncertainty and time pressure surrounding the diagnostic process. Physician training emphasizes group level information, like population risk factors, and may expose trainees to minorities in unfavorable circumstances of illness or addiction, reinforcing stereotypes. This is different from overt racism where one consciously engages in differential treatment of groups, such as the refusal to provide medical aid to Black patients.