Epidemiological study on gender bias and low-value practices in primary care: a study protocol

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Gender Studies in Medicine
• Primary Care Medicine

Background:

• Gender significantly influences health behaviors, healthcare access, and system responses.
• Low-value healthcare practices may disproportionately affect certain genders.
• Addressing gender bias is crucial for equitable patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess gender bias in patients undergoing low-value practices within primary care.
• To develop evidence-based recommendations for mitigating gender-related adverse events in women.
• To improve the quality and equity of primary healthcare services.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi study will establish consensus on 'Do Not Do' recommendations potentially influenced by gender bias.
• A retrospective cohort study will quantify adverse events linked to ignored 'Do Not Do' recommendations.
• Qualitative methods, including consensus conferences and nominal groups, will identify barriers and facilitators to address gender bias.

Main Results:

• The study is designed to identify and quantify gender bias in low-value primary care practices.
• It will determine the frequency of adverse events resulting from non-adherence to specific medical recommendations.
• Qualitative data will illuminate factors influencing the implementation of gender-equitable practices.

Conclusions:

• This research will provide actionable recommendations to reduce gender bias in primary care.
• The findings aim to minimize adverse events experienced by women due to gender-related disparities in healthcare.
• The study contributes to advancing equitable and effective primary healthcare delivery.