Addressing Racial Disparities in Medical Device and Healthcare Technology Functionality and Clinical Trial Representation

Darrell Norman Burrell (), Allison J. Huff (), Delores Springs (), Quatavia McLester (), Daphnee Labidou-West () and Won Song ()
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Darrell Norman Burrell: Marymount University, USA
Allison J. Huff: The University of Arizona, USA
Delores Springs: Capitol Technology University, USA
Quatavia McLester: Columbus State University, USA
Daphnee Labidou-West: Marymount University, USA
Won Song: Capitol Technology University, USA

RAIS Conference Proceedings 2022-2026 from Research Association for Interdisciplinary Studies

Abstract: This commentary examines the structural roots and consequences of racial bias in healthcare technology and the persistent underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical research. While medical technologies are often framed as objective and scientifically neutral, this paper argues that they are embedded within broader social, historical, and institutional contexts that shape their development and application. Empirical evidence demonstrates that widely used diagnostic tools, such as pulse oximeters and infrared thermometers, can produce systematically biased readings across racial groups, leading to clinically significant disparities in diagnosis and treatment. Concurrently, clinical trials continue to disproportionately enroll White participants, limiting the generalizability and validity of medical knowledge for diverse populations. The analysis integrates perspectives from social psychology and systems thinking to illustrate how mistrust, implicit bias, historical injustice, and institutional design collectively reinforce inequitable outcomes. These issues are not isolated technical flaws but interconnected failures spanning research design, regulatory oversight, industry incentives, and community engagement. As a result, healthcare systems risk institutionalizing error while perpetuating unequal risk distribution. The paper argues that meaningful reform requires a comprehensive systems-based approach, including regulatory accountability, inclusive research practices, culturally competent methodologies, and sustained community partnerships. Addressing these challenges is essential not only for improving scientific rigor but also for restoring public trust and advancing health equity. Ultimately, the paper positions equity as a foundational requirement for both ethical legitimacy and effective healthcare delivery in diverse societies.

Keywords: Healthcare Equity; Racial Bias; Healthcare Technology; Biotechnology; Clinical Trials; Health Disparities; Health Administration; Medical Device Development; Healthcare Research (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 9 pages
Date: 2026-03
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-inv, nep-mid and nep-pke
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Published in Proceedings of the 43rd International RAIS Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities, March 12-13, 2026, pages 31-40

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