Confronting Racism In Pediatric Care

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Racism is a significant social determinant of health impacting pediatric populations.
• Systemic inequities in healthcare disproportionately affect children from marginalized racial and ethnic groups.
• A call to action is needed for the medical community to actively dismantle racist structures in pediatric practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the integration of anti-racism principles into pediatric primary care.
• To highlight the ethical imperative for pediatricians to address racism.
• To stimulate dialogue and action within the pediatric profession regarding racial justice.

Main Methods:

• This is a perspective piece, not a research study.
• It involves a critical review of the literature on racism in healthcare.
• It presents a pediatrician's call to action based on clinical experience and ethical considerations.

Main Results:

• Racism in pediatric care manifests in various forms, including implicit bias and structural barriers.
• Failure to address racism perpetuates health disparities among children.
• Proactive anti-racism strategies are essential for equitable health outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The pediatric profession has a responsibility to actively combat racism.
• Implementing anti-racist practices is vital for achieving health equity in pediatrics.
• Systemic change is necessary to ensure all children receive unbiased, high-quality care.