African American Women's Medical Mistrust In Relation To The US Healthcare System

Abstract: African American women experience a myriad of complex factors when it comes to their relationship with the US healthcare system. Factors such as systemic racism, historical mistrust, and knowledge all play a factor in their quality of care. This paper examines the phenomenon of medical mistrust among African American women and its effects on care, with a focus on the role of radiologic technologists in addressing those factors and supporting cultural competence. Through a review of the literature, this paper explores the historical context of medical mistrust, factors affecting medical imaging utilization, and experiences of discrimination. Increasing awareness and cultural competence of radiologic technologists will allow for a more

African American Women’s Medical Mistrust in Relation to the US Healthcare System The relationship between African American women and the US healthcare system is often described as mistrust. This mistrust stems from a history of unethical practices, systematic racism, and lack of equitable care. The radiologic technologist is a key provider of diagnostic imaging and plays a vital role in healthcare delivery. They must apply proper communication skills with all patients, regardless of cultural background and beliefs, to provide care and build trust among diverse patients. Building cultural competence can provide a better understanding of African American women's experiences, perspectives, and needs. All of which can assist in providing better quality care to an underserved population. This paper is designed to investigate the development of medical mistrust among African American women and the impact it has on healthcare utilization. The specific purpose of addressing these impacts within the radiologic technology profession is to increase cultural competence in radiologic technologists and allied healthcare professionals. This will help move toward addressing equitable access to care, decrease health illiteracy among African American women, and increase patient-provider communication in a culturally congruent manner. Enhanced awareness of medical mistrust and the role it plays in the provision of healthcare can harness the influence of radiologic technologists in ensuring high-quality, equitable, and inclusive healthcare procedures in which all patients, irrespective of race, ethnicity, and cultural background, receive optimal-quality