California Attorney General Rob Bonta recently disclosed the findings of a comprehensive Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation, shedding light on the persistence of implicit bias among healthcare workers in perinatal settings and the imperative need for further advancement in addressing these concerns.
In a news conference, Bonta emphasized the urgency of heeding the data, stating, “We need to listen to this data. It’s screaming at us to do something.”
This investigation follows the passage of a 2019 bill by the state legislature, which mandated that all health professionals undergo training to mitigate racial biases.
Recent data underscores a stark reality: Black women experience maternal mortality rates significantly higher than any other racial group, with rates three to four times higher than those of white women.
Je Ton Carey, representing the Children’s Council of San Francisco, highlighted the fact that many Black mothers are not taken seriously when they communicate their pains and discomfort to medical professionals. These biases, often unintentional, are held by hospital staff and contribute to the high mortality rate among Black women.
Carey further pointed out that a combination of socioeconomic factors, including inadequate investment, and systemic racism are major contributors to the disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women. These disparities extend beyond childbirth and have far-reaching implications for millions of Black children, affecting their social and emotional development and kindergarten readiness.
The attorney general revealed that when the DOJ investigation commenced in August 2021, fewer than 17% of hospitals across the state had initiated training for their employees. However, substantial progress has been made since then, with over 80% of hospitals now engaged in this crucial training.
Bonta emphasized that these mandates are not mere suggestions but are legally binding requirements that must be adhered to, backed by deadlines, enforcement, and consequences. He underscored the critical importance of acting swiftly, stating, “Time is of the essence. When it comes to healthcare, bias can be the difference between life and death.”
While the progress is noteworthy, the attorney general’s message is clear: much work remains to be done to eliminate implicit biases in perinatal settings and ensure equitable maternal health outcomes for all women, regardless of their racial background.
