Understanding and reducing diagnostic errors caused by ableism in healthcare
End Diagnostic Overshadowing: Addressing Ableism in the Healthcare Context
This study is looking at how biases against people with disabilities can cause doctors to overlook other health issues, and it aims to find ways to help ensure that everyone gets the right diagnosis and care they need.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10992885 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how ableism leads to diagnostic overshadowing, where symptoms are misattributed to a patient's disability rather than identifying new or comorbid conditions. The project aims to uncover the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and develop strategies to mitigate its effects. By analyzing healthcare coding practices and conducting mock evaluations, the research seeks to improve diagnostic accuracy for individuals with disabilities and those from marginalized backgrounds. The ultimate goal is to enhance healthcare outcomes by ensuring that all patients receive appropriate diagnoses and treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mobility impairments, mental health concerns, or sensory disabilities, as well as patients from marginalized racial and ethnic groups.
Not a fit: Patients without disabilities or those who do not belong to marginalized communities may not directly benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better healthcare outcomes for patients with disabilities and those from marginalized communities.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted the prevalence of diagnostic overshadowing and its negative impact on patient care, indicating that addressing this issue could lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ailey, Sarah Herrink — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Ailey, Sarah Herrink
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.