Race Roundtable Series: Structural Racism in Palliative Care

Area of Science:

• Palliative Care
• Health Equity
• Social Justice in Medicine

Background:

• Racial and ethnic disparities persist in hospice and palliative care.
• Understanding the impact of systemic racism is crucial for equitable end-of-life care.
• Interdisciplinary perspectives are needed to address complex issues of race in palliative care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the intersection of race and racism within the field of palliative care.
• To stimulate critical reflection among palliative care professionals on issues of equity.
• To serve as a call to action for promoting racial justice in end-of-life care.

Main Methods:

• A series of roundtable discussions were conducted.
• Participants included interdisciplinary clinicians, researchers, educators, and leaders in palliative care.
• Discussions focused on identifying and analyzing forms of racism in palliative care.

Main Results:

• The series highlights the multifaceted nature of race and racism in palliative care settings.
• Discussions identified key areas where racial bias may impact patient care and outcomes.
• Participants engaged in critical examination of systemic issues affecting equity.

Conclusions:

• Addressing race and racism is essential for advancing health equity in palliative care.
• Continued dialogue and action are necessary to dismantle racism in end-of-life care.
• Promoting racial justice requires ongoing commitment from all stakeholders in the field.