Racism in healthcare

NEW research published last month found that more than half of ethnic minority psychiatrists had experienced racism in their careers.

The study, by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, also revealed 55 per cent of poll respondents said that reporting a racist incident resulted in no change.

This is not the first time that issues relating to racism and discrimination have been highlighted in the healthcare system.

Numerous reports have previously revealed the increasing levels of bullying, harassment and abuse within the NHS, including the Workforce Race Equality Standard report from NHS England in 2019.

Despite various studies exposing the problem, experts have voiced concern that racism in the system has been getting progressively worse.

Experiencing racism or prejudice can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental and physical health. It can lead to feelings of humiliation, insecurity and exclusion, potentially affecting their wellbeing, as well as their work performance.

It could also deter the future generation from pursuing a career in healthcare, for fear of facing discrimination throughout their work life.

Tackling racial discrimination in the health services requires an honest discussion about how it can be addressed. Health leaders have to put strategies in place to protect their staff so they feel comfortable enough to report racism, with the confidence that it will be taken seriously and not impact their careers.

Doing little or nothing to tackle racial bias is not an option. The pandemic has highlighted the stress that healthcare staff are under, and we must act now to look after those who care for us in our time of need.