ABSTRACT
Having biases is part of being human. We are naturally inclined to make microsecond decisions about other people based on very little information. Most of the time we are not even aware of our biases. With startling frequency, we are unconscious of our biases and the consequent discriminatory behavior we exhibit against one person and in favor of someone else. Our biases can lead to considerable problems as we unwittingly and unconsciously cause harm, especially to those who are depending on and expecting our objectivity – namely, our patients. This chapter begins with a summary of the literature on unconscious bias, followed by discussion about unconscious bias in the clinical setting. Data on troubling patient outcomes that occur when health professionals and healthcare systems have unchecked bias toward certain populations are presented. Finally there is description of conscious and deliberate steps health professionals can take to increase awareness of biases and overcome them to provide optimal patient care. The chapter concludes with activities that provide opportunity for experiential learning related to unconscious bias.
