Employee Health and Wellness Outcomes Associated With Perceived Discrimination in Academic Medicine

Abstract

Key Points Question What are the reported associations of workplace exclusion and perceived discrimination with employee health behaviors and outcomes in a large academic health care institution? Findings In this qualitative study of 115 participants, most reported outcomes associated with perceived discrimination were emotional (87.8%). More than 1 in 10 narratives (12.2%) described a mental or physical health condition, including stress, depression and anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, changes in blood pressure, and changes in sleeping behaviors. Meaning These findings suggest that creating diverse and inclusive environments in which to work and learn can play a vital role in reducing harms associated with perceived discrimination and exclusion.

Cultivating Anti-Racism Allies in Academic Medicine

“…To promote health equity, academic excellence, and scientific innovation, academic medical centers should focus on building diverse and inclusive environments. 7 Given the significant costs interpersonal racism has on physicians' of color physical, emotional, and mental health, 8 addressing issues of interpersonal racism and bias are essential. Racialized minorities compose a small percentage of the faculty physician workforce [Black (3.6%), Latino/a/x (3.2%), and American Indian/Alaskan Natives (0.1%), 9 referred to as marginalized physicians of color throughout this article].…”

“…Racialized minorities compose a small percentage of the faculty physician workforce [Black (3.6%), Latino/a/x (3.2%), and American Indian/Alaskan Natives (0.1%), 9 referred to as marginalized physicians of color throughout this article]. Yet, marginalized physicians of color are much more likely to experience racism and microaggressions 2 , 3 , 8 , 10 while navigating predominately White academic institutions. 10 …”