Why Rebuilding Trust is Key to in Healthcare

5 Tips to Improve Black Women's Health and Trust in Healthcare

Building trust is a crucial aspect of healthcare that shapes clients' experiences in the healthcare system. For instance, the medical ethics of healthcare providers, such as Dr. J Marion Sims, have left a lasting impact on trust in healthcare for Black women today. Dr. Sims, often lauded as the "father of modern gynecology," conducted a series of experimental surgeries on enslaved African-American women in the mid-19th century. While his work contributed to advancements in gynecological procedures, it came at a grave ethical cost. These women, denied anesthesia and treated without their informed consent, suffered unimaginable pain in the name of medical progress.

Even though some have argued that the African American enslaved women whom Dr. Sims experimented on were "willing" participants, these arguments ignore the harsh realities of the situation (Wall, 2006). These experiments conducted between 1845 and 1849 happened before the passing of the 13th Amendment on December 6, 1865, which abolished slavery in the United States. Additionally, it wasn't until the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that African Americans were granted civil, political, and legal rights and protections.

Therefore, the argument that they could have been willing participants is flawed as they had no equal rights or protections that would have allowed them to say no. 

Why this is important to consider today, when Black women have equal rights and protections under the law, is that Dr. Sims' unethical practices have created a trust deficit. His actions still reverberate in the hearts and minds of Black women seeking healthcare today. The legacy of exploitation and mistreatment has given rise to a well-founded distrust within the Black community. As healthcare providers, we must acknowledge this history and work diligently to rebuild trust.

How Do We Rebuild Trust in Healthcare 

Tip 1: Acknowledge the Harm 

Acknowledgment is the first step towards healing. By acknowledging the atrocities committed against Black women in the past, we demonstrate empathy and validate their experiences. Recognizing that trust must be earned through compassionate, respectful care is essential.

Tip 2: Invest in Cultural Competence

To bridge the trust gap, healthcare providers must invest in cultural competence. Understanding Black women's unique experiences, beliefs, and preferences allows for more personalized and effective care. For instance, investing in cultural competence entails actively listening, being sensitive to the client's needs, and involving them in decision-making.

Tip 3: Prioritize Informed Consent

The cornerstone of ethical healthcare practice is ensuring that clients give informed consent. We must ensure our clients, particularly Black women who have been historically disenfranchised, fully understand their treatment options, potential risks, and alternatives. When they do, it empowers them to make informed decisions about their health.

Tip 4: Foster Open Communication

Effective communication is a two-way street. Creating a safe space where Black women feel heard and valued is essential. Open communication can be achieved by encouraging clients to share their concerns, preferences, and experiences and be receptive to their feedback. By doing so, you not only build trust but also strengthen the provider-client relationship.

Tip 5: Cultivate Community Partnerships

Collaboration with community organizations and leaders is critical to dismantling barriers to equitable healthcare. By actively participating in initiatives that promote health awareness and access, we demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of Black women.

As healthcare providers, we bear the responsibility of upholding the highest standards of care, especially for those who have been historically marginalized. By addressing the legacy of Dr. Sims and actively working to rebuild trust, we can create a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.

If you're eager to delve deeper into topics like this, consider booking me for future engagements. Together, we can continue equipping healthcare providers with the skills to address the unique challenges Black women face in their pursuit of equitable healthcare.

Reference 

Wall L. L. (2006). The medical ethics of Dr J Marion Sims: A fresh look at the historical record. Journal of Medical Ethics, 32(6), 346–350. https://doi.org/10.1136/jme.2005.012559