Medical student, physician, and public perceptions of health care disparities.

Abstract

Perceptions of unfair treatment in the health care system differ among medical students, physicians, and the public, as well as among racial/ethnic groups. Minority students and physicians are more likely to perceive greater levels of unfairness. Our results suggest that perceptions of unfair treatment may decline during the process of acculturation to the medical profession. Interventions to reduce health care disparities must address the process of medical education and training.