Assessing the Levels of Implicit Racial Bias Among Anesthesia Providers

Implicit biases are detrimental to patient care and health outcomes, yet they are prevalent among providers. Literature has shown implicit racial bias hinders rapport between patient and provider, leading to patients becoming resistant to medical advice and treatment protocols. The prevalence of implicit racial bias among healthcare providers must be recognized by healthcare systems, along with an understanding of the varying levels existing among varying levels of providers. This doctoral project aims to assess and establish baseline levels of existing racial bias among anesthesia providers working at specified Atrium Health facilities and bring awareness to this sensitive topic. Harvard’s Implicit Association Test was utilized to assess implicit racial bias via an online survey platform. Results were uploaded and demonstrated an average level of racial bias between slight and moderate ( D score 0.15-0.35) against black individuals compared to white individuals. Analysis of variance testing was used to determine a lack of statistical difference between the varying levels of anesthesia providers assessed for racial bias.