ABSTRACT
A stigma is an attribute of individual or group character that signifies something "unusual and bad about the being of the signifier". This chapter focuses on a variety of occasions for social interaction that helped to set the stage for the degradation of black physicians but that were often met by resistance from them. While most black physicians since 1900 earned their medical degrees and specialized training through an accredited and reputable medical school, many nevertheless had to cope with invasive public questions and/or doubts about their abilities to practice medicine competently. Distrust among blacks interfered in a variety of ways in referrals and in doctor-patient relationships. Gaining credibility in the eyes of established colleagues; receipt of referrals of patients for specialized diagnoses and treatments; continuous professional growth through continuing and postdoctoral education and successful passage of board certified specialty examinations helped to build trust and fend off claims of incompetence.
