Advancing Equitable Osteopathic Practice: Integrating Person-Centredness & Addressing Racial Biases Through the Lens of Critical Theory

Abstract

As osteopaths, many of us ideally endeavour to minimise biased interpretations when evaluating the pain and distress expressed by individuals seeking treatment. However, as a product of the society we live in, we acknowledge that various unconscious biases, including racial bias, may unintentionally and spontaneously influence our view of a patient's condition and perception of pain. This paper explores the intersection of Person-Centred Care (PCC) and racial biases through critical theory in the context of osteopathic practice. It emphasises the ethical duty of healthcare professionals to deliver PCC that recognizes individual experiences, values, needs, and abilities. Racial biases within healthcare settings are identified as contributors to disparities in access, quality, and outcomes. They can also lead to bias in the clinical decision-making process requiring attention in osteopathic clinical practice.

The critical theory framework allows for the identification of opportunities and barriers to implementing PCC and equity in osteopathic practice, highlighting factors such as the impact of implicit bias and structural barriers.

As a result, osteopaths are recommended to take a proactive approach through self-awareness, challenging personal beliefs and actively engaging in cultural humility to minimise racial biases. Osteopathic education could contribute to the cultivation of cultural humility and awareness in training programmes, fostering a passion for fair healthcare among future osteopathic professionals. Ultimately, the integration of critical theory and PCC through cultural humility is presented as an approach to promoting equitable healthcare that empowers individuals.