Does size matter? Weight bias, stigma, and medical radiation technology practice in Canada

Although biases are a natural part of the human experience, left unchecked, they can lead to considerable harm in the context of healthcare. Weight Bias and Stigma (WBS) is a pervasive bias rooted in the negative attitudes and perceptions of individuals in large bodies. WBS can result in poor health outcomes of large-bodied patients due to weight distraction, delaying or avoiding seeking care, and the presumption of non-compliance. As high-volume carers, Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs)/Radiographers are a central pillar in the healthcare system; responsible for caring for a multitude of patient populations. The purpose of this study was to explore MRTs perceptions and attitudes regarding large-bodied patients, and to identify subsequent practice implications and areas for improvement.

The study included ten practicing MRTs with a range of clinical experience from hospitals across Ontario, Canada. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews (pilot tested) conducted in person and online and analyzed using Braun and Clark's approach to thematic analysis.

Four main themes were identified by analyzing the interview responses including hospital resources, patient care, attitudes and perspectives, and education for future practice. Deficit language and responses provided evidence of WBS not only in the sample population but also within hospitals across Ontario, Canada, as revealed by recounts of stories and comments made by other healthcare professionals. Evidence of empathy and advocacy for large-bodied patients was also found.

WBS influences the provision of care in medical radiation sciences. This study found both implicit and explicit WBS, as well as demonstrations of empathy and compassion for large-bodied patients. The emergent themes identified in this study demonstrate the need for improvement in hospital resources and equipment, as well as improvements in education and training of MRTs and other healthcare professionals working with large-bodied patients.