The Potential Impact Of Comparative Effectiveness Research On The Health Of Minority Populations

Abstract

Minorities suffer more frequently and more severely from many diseases than do non-Hispanic whites, and they often receive lower-quality care, which leads to poorer health outcomes. Given the diversity of the US population, comparative effectiveness research should capture the health outcomes of racial and ethnic minority groups and investigate whether disparities reflect variations in care or different responses to treatment. We recommend a number of measures to ensure that this research addresses the needs of minorities, including greater attention to subgroup analysis. We also recommend the increased recruitment of minorities for clinical trials, and such measures as using community health workers to translate research results in ways that will increase their relevance to minority patients.