Institutional Racism within the National Health Service (NHS): Ethnic Minority Populations as the Main Target

Ernest Acha ()

Global Journal of Health Sciences, 2024, vol. 9, issue 4, 54 - 68

Abstract: Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine Institutional Racism within the National Health Service (NHS): Ethnic Minority Populations as the Main Target. Methodology: The study employed a mixed-methods approach. The study focuses on ethnic minority healthcare professionals, particularly migrants from African countries with colonial ties to the UK, such as Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Ethnic minority patients from these same African nations, who have accessed healthcare services within the NHS, are also a key focus. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 healthcare workers and 20 patients from ethnic minority backgrounds. A survey was distributed to 100 healthcare workers and patients from similar ethnic backgrounds. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis, Narrative Analysis and Cross-case Comparison. Qualitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics. Findings: Interviews conducted with Cameroonian, Nigerian, Ghanaian, South African and Zimbabwean NHS employees reveal a pattern of discriminatory practices that hinder their professional development. Many respondents reported feeling marginalised, with limited opportunities for advancement compared to their white counterparts.Quantative data revealed that 55% of respondents reported feeling that their healthcare needs were not adequately addressed, 47% stated that they had experienced long waiting times compared to white patients and 40% reported that they had been misdiagnosed or received inappropriate treatment. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: It expands the understanding of neo-colonialism by demonstrating its continuity through healthcare recruitment and treatment of ethnic minorities in the UK, highlighting a transnational connection between former colonial powers and less developed countries, The research advocates for the implementation of cultural competence training and unbiased recruitment processes to mitigate discrimination in the workplace and healthcare services. The research highlights the need for policy interventions targeting the promotion and advancement of ethnic minority workers within the NHS, suggesting reforms that promote equal opportunities for career growth.

Keywords: Institutional Racism; National Health Service (NHS); Ethnic Minority Populations (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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