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Evidence shows racial and ethnic disparities exist across a range of illnesses and health care services.

Studies addressing these issues report that racial and ethnic disparities persist even when demographic factors, such as socioeconomic status, level of insurance, and comorbidity conditions are controlled.

The 2002 Institute of Medicine report, "Unequal Treatment: Confronting Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health Care," states that while there is substantial data with respect to racial and ethnic disparities pertaining to many health services, there is insufficient data with respect to racial and ethnic disparities in access to, utilization of, or outcomes from physical therapist services.


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Additional Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities Content

For Minority Health Month: PTJ Insights

Apr 8, 2024 / Roundup

Four articles — two from an upcoming PTJ special issue on health disparities — explore minority health issues through a range of lenses.

NIH: People With Disabilities Among Groups Experiencing Health Disparities

Oct 3, 2023 / News

The agency's decision, strongly supported by APTA, means more support for research on intersectionality and health outcomes.

Study Finds Disparities in White, Black Use of PT Services

Nov 8, 2022 / Review

A review of electronic health records also found white patients received services for musculoskeletal pain faster than Black patients.

Be Humble, Curious, and Ready to Learn: Care for the Native American Population

Oct 8, 2022 / News

APTA Magazine connects with experienced providers to explore keys to providing culturally competent physical therapy.

7 Conversations to Have With Your Legislators While They're Back Home in August

Aug 1, 2022 / Roundup

District offices, town halls, maybe a visit to your clinic? Here are some topics worth mentioning.

Study: Telehealth Has Improved Care Access in Disadvantaged Areas

Jun 21, 2022 / Review

Researchers say the CMS telehealth waivers worked and should be made permanent.

CMS Ramps Up Commitment to Health Care Equity

Apr 27, 2022 / News

The agency laid out a general strategy for how it hopes to move the needle on disparities in access and outcomes.

For Minority Health Month: Three Important APTA Resources

Apr 12, 2022 / Roundup

Get the big picture, then dive deeper into key concepts that inform person-centered care.

Support for Workforce Diversity, Research on SDOH Solutions Part of New Bill

Mar 18, 2022 / News

The APTA-backed federal legislation would provide scholarships and stipends to increase diversity in physical therapy education programs.

APTA is Spreading the Physical Activity Message

Oct 20, 2021 / Roundup

We're at the table providing the profession's perspective on the importance of physical activity. See how.