When a Family Requests a White Doctor.

Creator(s)

Kimberly L Reynolds
John D Cowden, Children's Mercy HospitalFollow
Jeffrey P Brosco
John D Lantos, Children's Mercy Hospital

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2015

Identifier

DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-2092

Abstract

Parents sometimes request that a doctor of a particular race or ethnic group not care for their child. Such requests sometimes seem legitimate and other times seem offensive. The difference reflects a clash of fundamental values. Generally, we try to respect patient or parental preferences. Requests based on racist attitudes, however, do not seem worthy of respect. But where should we draw the line? In this ethics rounds, we present a situation in which parents requested a white doctor and analyze the ways in which doctors might think about and respond to such a request.

Journal Title

Pediatrics

Volume

136

Issue

2

First Page

381

Last Page

386

MeSH Keywords

African Continental Ancestry Group; Child, Preschool; Delivery of Health Care; European Continental Ancestry Group; Family; Female; Humans; Patient Preference; Racism

Keywords

African Continental Ancestry Group; Child, Preschool; Delivery of Health Care; European Continental Ancestry Group; Family; Female; Humans; Patient Preference; Racism

Recommended Citation

Reynolds KL, Cowden JD, Brosco JP, Lantos JD. When a Family Requests a White Doctor. Pediatrics. 2015;136(2):381-386. doi:10.1542/peds.2014-2092