Perceived Discrimination in Cancer Care: Implications for Care Quality and Health of Breast Cancer Patients

• In Event: Medical Sociology Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 9. Racialized Experiences of Health and Healthcare

Abstract

Health care providers have a responsibility to deliver equitable treatment to all patients, yet perceived discrimination in health care settings has been disproportionately reported by non-white and migrant populations. Discrimination experiences are associated with a number of adverse outcomes, such as delayed or foregone care, reduced trust in providers, lower adherence to medical recommendations, lower quality of life, and higher risk of disease.

In Germany, where nearly one-third of the population has a migrant background, research on perceived discrimination in health care remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the prevalence and consequences of perceived discrimination among breast cancer patients. Data were collected through a postal and online survey as part of the annual accreditation process, which included measures of perceived discrimination, provider-patient interaction, patient-reported health outcomes, clinical data, and sociodemographic information. Using multilevel logistic and linear models, preliminary analyses indicate that cancer patients with migrant backgrounds were more likely to report unfair or disrespectful treatment during their hospital stay. Perceived discrimination was associated with more negatively rated clinical encounters and lower provider trust.

Cancer patients experience high levels of distress and fear, which may be compounded by the quality of care they receive. This study analyzes the possible consequences of perceived discrimination on health care experiences and patient health, finding patients’ reported discrimination experiences may negatively impact provider-patient encounters and well-being. Preliminary findings indicate that patients from minoritized populations are particularly vulnerable to perceive unfair or disrespectful treatment in hospital settings, which may in turn undermine trust and adversely impact quality of life post-surgery. This study underscores the critical need to evaluate and address the quality of care of minoritized patients.

Author

• Susan Lee, Siena University