Implicit Bias and Patient Care: Mitigating Bias, Preventing Harm

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anti-Racism Training
• Implicit Bias in Healthcare

Background:

• Simulation offers a novel approach to educating medical practitioners on racism and bias.
• Addressing implicit bias is crucial for mitigating harm to patients and families.

Observation:

• A simulation case involved learners identifying implicit bias in an orthopedic resident's concerns regarding an African American child with a toddler's fracture.
• Learners were tasked with recognizing the absence of nonaccidental trauma indicators and addressing the resident's biased concerns.
• Effective communication strategies with both the resident and parent were emphasized to de-escalate the situation.

Findings:

• Seventy-five medical professionals, including residents, fellows, attendings, and students, participated.
• Post-simulation, a majority reported increased confidence in recognizing (90%) and managing racial bias (88%) in patient care.
• A significant majority (79%) felt equipped to use a tool for addressing bias concerns.

Implications:

• The anti-racist simulation was perceived as relevant and effective by participants.
• Learners reported enhanced confidence in identifying and managing racially biased patient care.
• This simulation provides a valuable skill-building opportunity for promoting equitable medical practices.