Upward bound students' experience with bias in healthcare: An application of critical race theory

AIMS: To explore how students participating in Trio Upward Bound, a federally funded program for low‐income and future first‐time college students, experience bias when seeking healthcare. DESIGN: Qualitative group discussion. METHODS: Twenty‐six Trio Upward Bound students participated in a group discussion about their experiences in healthcare. Questions for the discussion were developed using Critical Race Theory. Student comments were analysed and coded using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Results were reported using Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research. RESULTS: Students reported experiencing bias in the healthcare setting because of age, race, native language, traditional dress and/or ability to advocate for their rights. Three themes emerged: communication, invisibility and healthcare rights. Through these themes students expressed how their experiences with healthcare lead to further cultural mistrust and mistrust of healthcare providers. The comments provided by students included examples of the five tenets of Critical Race Theory: the permanence of racism, colorblindness, interest convergence, Whiteness as property, and the critique of liberalism. Among this group of adolescents, early negative experiences in healthcare have led some to avoid seeking treatment. As this continues into adulthood it may further health disparities in these groups. Critical Race Theory is a valuable tool in understanding how race, class and age intersect to create disparities in healthcare.