Exploring the Provider Preferences of Multiracial Patients

BACKGROUND: Patient–provider race concordance has been argued as one way to improve patient–provider communication, patient satisfaction, and even patient outcomes. However, much of this literature focuses on or assumes that both patients and providers identify with only one race. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to understand multiracial patients’ preferences in choosing a health-care provider. METHODS: We conducted 15 interviews and 3 focus groups. We performed a directed content analysis to understand participants’ expressed preferences. RESULTS: Thirty-one participants shared their health-care preferences. Participants described proximity to their homes or work, convenience in terms of availability, and health insurance coverage as reasons for selecting a provider. The majority articulated preferences related to provider gender and race. However, participants noted key barriers to receiving care from their preferred providers. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the preferences for health-care providers and the factors influencing those preferences and decisions among multiracial individuals. Findings illustrate the need to increase health workforce diversity, especially among primary care providers. Findings also show the need for increased empathy and cultural sensitivity among health-care professionals.