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Racial differences in how patients perceive physician communication regarding cardiac testing
Tracie C Collins1, Jack A Clark, Laura A Petersen
1Houston Center for Quality of Care and Utilization Studies, Houston VA Medical Center, Texas, USA.
Medical Care
|January 16, 2002
Summary
Racial differences in cardiac procedure communication exist. Black patients prioritize trust, while white patients seek clearer explanations for recommended tests, impacting healthcare decisions.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Medical Communication
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Racial variations in cardiac procedure utilization necessitate understanding communication and decision-making processes.
- Patient perceptions of provider interactions regarding cardiac testing require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore racial differences in patient-provider communication and decision-making concerning cardiac testing.
- To identify patient perspectives on information clarity, trust, and procedural recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of focus group discussions with 13 white and black patients who underwent cardiac stress testing.
- Stratified sampling by race to examine communication and relationship dynamics.
Main Results:
- Patients reported information as incomplete, vague, and unclear.
- Black patients emphasized the need for trust before agreeing to invasive procedures, noting a lack of it.
- White patients focused on being inadequately convinced of the necessity for recommended procedures.
Conclusions:
- Problematic communication exists for both black and white patients regarding cardiac testing.
- Vague information and lack of trust contribute to confusion and may explain racial disparities in healthcare utilization.
- Addressing communication gaps and fostering trust are crucial for equitable cardiac care.