The Use of Race in Clinical Algorithms

Guest: Ramla N. Kasozi, M.B., Ch.B., M.P.H.

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D. (@ChutkaMD)

There is currently a debate regarding the use of race and ethnic categories in clinical decision-making. There are numerous studies which claim data from race is a factor and should be considered when designing practice guidelines and clinical algorithms. Some feel that any benefit is small compared to the potential harm that could occur regarding the past abuse of race used in medicine. Unfortunately, many questions remain unanswered. Is race a reliable proxy for genetic differences? Are there genetic differences which explain the basis behind race-based algorithms? And what are the potential dangers of using race-adjusted algorithms? This podcast reviews these topics with Ramla N. Kasozi, M.B., Ch.B., M.P.H., a family physician at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.

Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd.