The United States is a multicultural society. The major racial categories in our country are White, African American, Hispanic, and Asian. Although the US population is diverse, it was founded by people of one ethnicity – the English settlers who came here seeking new land in their quest for trade. However, a struggle between indigenous people and foreigners has been ongoing since the foundation of the United States. Some Americans, even today, consider themselves to be superior to others due to the color of their skin, control over more resources, and access to better education and healthcare facilities.
Racial bias in America has been studied for decades, with many different explanations as to why these gaps exist. Some possible reasons that have come up include the way we are raised or live our lives. The difference in income and other outcomes for different races is the American society’s most visible and persistent features. A recent study on racial disparities in America has shown that these problems are not only present, but they also present extremely real threats.
Race and ethnicity can impact a person’s access to health care. The differential factors include the geography, lack of coverage due to job loss or being uninsured, language barriers, and cultural beliefs about doctors that may not encourage trust even if the provider has no intention of stereotyping them.
The sources for racial/ethnic healthcare disparities range from geographic location to communication difficulties when discussing medical issues concerning one’s self-identity. Such questions often cause fear among the respondents regarding divulging their personal information.
The law forbids racial discrimination, but ethnic minorities are more likely to live in poverty. In the United States, more whites go to university than non-white minorities. This disparity results in minority students graduating with fewer qualifications and experience, thereby creating an opportunity gap. It becomes much harder for these groups to find employment due to barriers arising from their cultural backgrounds – such as the language barrier, which makes communication difficult.
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