Medical Disparities

Greetings Everyone, 

I hope you are all well today. I want to discuss something that impacts so many people. I have heard countless stories about the health disparities between minorities and their counterparts. Various celebrities have also discussed this trend. It is said the health of people of color is not always taken seriously. It is not always about their socioeconomic status. I feel a lot of it is racism. I cannot speak for anyone but myself in terms of this experience.

It is no secret that I have some health challenges as an African-American woman. I have always been overweight and I do not dispute that it does not contribute to the health issues. I have seen many so-called medical specialists over the years. Some were better than others and really tried to get to the root of my issues. They would try to see which medications and remedies worked and which ones did not work. They cared and did their jobs as medical professionals. Then there were those other doctors who really did not care. They would tell me I am fat and losing weight was the answer to all of my issues. I even had one doctor once who was so rude that he berated me. He was extremely hostile and unprofessional. Many people of all backgrounds gave him bad reviews for his demeanor and lack of decorum when it came to their medical care. I even went to the medical board in my home state and field a complaint due to my personal issues with the doctor. Of course nothing came from it. 

I have had so many doctors come and go. It always seem Iike the better ones always left the practices they were at. I had to constantly build a rapport with someone new. I do not gravitate towards many people. I never did. However, when I found a doctor who I really liked and one who did right by me; it hurt whenever they left the practice. Please understand, I have nothing against anyone and I will work with anyone. All I am saying is I can tell who really cares and who does not.  I can recall so many doctors I was close to – usually people of color who seemed to care more about me as a person of color than a lot of non-ethnic doctors who only see me as a number or a paycheck. Here is why I say that: they did not always take heed of my concerns. They were often dismissive and nonchalant. Recently, I called one doctor on an emergency basis. I could not reach my doctor. She was the emergency doctor on call. Her attitude was “you are not my patient. I am not doing anything for you. I might forward a message to your regular doctor. You can either wait for him and/or go back to the emergency room.” I was so taken aback by her candor that I cried for hours. I did eventually speak with my doctor and I told him about my experience with the doctor on call. What really hurt me in this instance was the lack of compassion and empathy. 

I know doctors have it rough. I can understand the stress and strain they endure on a regular basis. I have great respect for doctors and anyone who chose to be in the medical field. At the same time, all medical professionals took an oath to treat patients. What I experienced was unacceptable. It hurt me deeply. I am one of the most easy going and mild mannered people you will ever meet. I try really hard not to irritate anyone. At the same time, what I was going through health wise that day was something extreme and I would not wish that treatment I received on anyone. I can tell you all various stories I personally experienced like this one. 

I am so thankful for all of the good doctors I had over the years. They made some of my issues better. They were kind and patient with me. They also addressed all of my concerns. They were will willing to go the extra mile. They are rare and I will never forget them. 

On the other hand, there are more doctors who are the opposite who really do not care about their patients. It is my  belief that they need to do better. I am happy that the disparities are being addressed. People continue to address your health concerns and disparities. It is my hope the medical field improves for all people.

Stay encouraged. Be blessed. ❤ Rayne Elise <3.