Part 3: Choose a high-quality hospital without compromise
Check out part 1 and part 2 of this series.
Have you ever been to a hospital that has a gorgeous lawn, a fountain that says “luxury”, and a valet service at the entrance? Then they tell you that check-in is just past the grand piano? Did you say that casually? It's tempting to ask, “Are these services worth their weight in gold?” And I'm worried about being treated like a VIP (very intimidating patient). Despite the proximity of world-class medical facilities, people with the most serious health concerns often tend to avoid “better” hospitals. Here's why that happens, and why you should still consider trying these hospitals.
Why do high-end local hospitals accept fewer black patients?
US healthcare is segregated
It seems crazy that airports in the same city would be segregated by race, but many urban markets have de facto segregated hospitals. Hospital care for Black patients in the United States is disproportionately concentrated in a small number of medical facilities. The Lown Hospitals Index found that many of the most and least comprehensive hospitals are located in the same metropolitan area. In 15 U.S. cities, hospital markets are racially segregated, with more than 50% of hospitals over-serving or under-serving communities of color. do not have.
Cities with fragmented hospital markets often experience large race-related disparities in life expectancy. In St. Louis County, for example, white residents have a life expectancy nearly nine years longer than black residents. A significant number of Black adults (67%) highlight limited access to quality health care in their communities as a primary reason for their poor overall health.
Additionally, Black patients often receive care from a subgroup of health care providers who are less qualified and resourced than those who serve white patients. This concentration and disparity highlights the need for efforts to increase referrals to quality health care for all communities.
face threats
Even if patients have insurance, many people choose to avoid high-end hospitals because they feel intimidated and fear the costs. In California, more than one in four Black residents avoid receiving care because they are genuinely concerned about the possibility of being treated unfairly or disrespected during their caregiving experience.
Why is it important?
health inequalities
Better hospitals often do not adequately serve the minority communities in which they are rooted. Inequalities persist as data reveals that black patients are admitted at lower rates to “high-quality” hospitals known for minimizing patient safety risks. About half of Black adults believe the main reason for poor health outcomes is that health care providers are less likely to prioritize their health and provide advanced care.
One study of primary care physicians found that physicians who treat black patients were less likely to be board certified than those visited by white patients and were “less likely to be able to provide quality care to all patients.” It was found that there was a high possibility of reporting “No,” and the number of reports was high. Challenges in ensuring access to quality subspecialists, diagnostic imaging, and non-emergency hospitalization.
How will hospitals change?
Hospitals feel passionate about addressing health issues for Black patients. This includes hiring a chief diversity officer, tracking results across racial and socioeconomic groups, understanding disparities, and evaluating the impact of interventions.
Increase investment in communities of color.
Some hospitals work with, train, hire, or contract with local communities to improve minority health issues. For example, CommonSpirit Health and Morehouse School of Medicine announced a 10-year, $100 million partnership to develop and train more Black health care workers to address health care disparities. To better represent the voices of the community, Chicago Medicine's Community Advisory Board is led by civic and faith leaders and provides guidance to the medical center on important community health issues such as racial disparities and social determinants of health. I am teaching.
Improving health disparities
To address organ transplant disparities among Black patients, the Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation (NewYork-Presbyterian) is supporting community health care providers to quickly refer Black patients with liver disease to specialized areas.
Addressing maternal health issues has become a priority for hospitals, especially for Black women, who have the highest maternal mortality rates. To improve maternal health, Cleveland Clinic Akron General and four other national hospitals launched her TeamBirth. This initiative empowers minority patients by facilitating conversations about recommended treatments. The goal is to empower patients to have a say in their care and make decisions that fit their needs.
Similarly, Alameda Health System's Beloved Birth Black Centered program provides culturally sensitive support to Black patients through midwife-led groups and educational resources.
Why you should consider going
Making medical decisions can seem difficult, but choosing a reputable in-network hospital, especially one that specializes in treating specific conditions, is a wise choice. If you are worried about high medical costs, don't worry. Financial assistance may be available. Even if you have insurance, eligibility often applies to households earning up to 400% of the federal poverty level. In many areas, her family of four with an annual income of less than $100,000 can qualify.
It is important to advocate for yourself by asking for the best referrals to cover your insurance. Your health requires the expertise and thoughtful care that the best health care providers can provide. Don't be satisfied with arbitrary hospital referrals. Prioritize your health by seeking quality care in great facilities.
Want to know how your local hospital ranks for racial inclusion? Check out the Lorne Hospital Index.
