A CHEST Clinical Perspectives study, released during the summer of 2024, investigated how unconscious bias may influence treatment decisions for patients with uncontrolled asthma. Researchers surveyed over 300 pulmonologists and primary care physicians, focusing on differences in treatment approaches based on patient demographics and socioeconomic backgrounds.
The study suggests that unconscious bias, especially related to socioeconomic status, may shape assumptions about understanding asthma and treatment compliance. However, physicians who follow asthma management guidelines appear to have fewer disparities in treatment decisions. Notably, biologic therapies were underutilized, particularly by primary care providers, signaling a need for targeted education.
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