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According to new research from the University of Pennsylvania, many Latinos, as well as other minorities, still perceive that their doctors do not care about them and that their medical care is not as good as it could be. Compared with whites, Latinos are less likely to trust the technical judgement and interpersonal competence of their doctors.
“Most people who are immigrants or have some immigrant connection feel more disenfranchised from the health care system,” said Abigail Sewell, research fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
Sewell used 2002 and 2006 General Social Surveys to determine that there is not only lower trust, but that the feelings of Latinos greatly are impacted by their beliefs that doctors do not take into consideration the circumstances of their personal lives. These circumstances include, but are not limited to access to transportation, access to active spaces, and legal status.
Currently, only 8.9% of U.S. physicians identify as some type of non-white minority, leading to a pressing need for the training and education of more minority physicians. There is also a need for current medical professionals to be educated on the cultural sensitivities and needs of a diverse population.
“This problem needs to be addressed through both providers and patients,” said Jose Ortiz, president and CEO of the Hispanic Health Council. “We work with providers through participatory training that builds a foundation of knowledge, attitudes and skills needed to work effectively with diverse populations.”
By The Numbers
25.1
percent
of Latinos remain without health insurance coverage
