What Are Microaggressions in Healthcare?

Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, actions or remarks that communicate prejudice toward members of marginalized groups. In healthcare, these can have a profound negative impact on both patients and healthcare professionals, creating a hostile environment and potentially affecting health outcomes. Understanding what microaggressions look like is the first step toward addressing them.

Types of Microaggressions

Microaggressions can be broadly categorized into three main types:

1. Microinsults

These are rude and insensitive comments or behaviors that are often unconscious but still disrespectful to a person's identity. They can relate to ethnicity, gender, language, appearance, and other aspects of identity.

Example: A doctor asking an Asian American woman during her first prenatal visit, "Your English is great! Where did you say you're from, again?" This implies that her English proficiency is surprising, subtly questioning her belonging or background.
Other Examples:

Generalizing or commenting negatively on the behavior of Black patients.
Making remarks about the physical appearance of a transgender or nonbinary person.
A patient choosing or refusing care based on a healthcare provider's gender, national origin, native language, cultural background, or ethnicity.

2. Microassaults

These are more deliberate and often overt acts of discrimination or prejudice. While they can be subtle, they are typically more intentional than microinsults.

Example: A person with Tourette syndrome experiences vocal and motor tics while in a busy urgent care waiting room. Other patients notice the tics and move away, creating an uncomfortable and isolating experience for the individual.
Other Examples:

Male healthcare professionals making
Additional Medical Guidance
This section adds practical context and preventive advice to help readers make informed healthcare decisions. It is important to verify symptoms early, consult qualified doctors, and avoid self-medication for persistent health issues.
Maintaining healthy routines, following prescribed treatment plans, and attending regular checkups can improve outcomes. If symptoms worsen or red-flag signs appear, immediate medical evaluation is recommended.
Quick Checklist
- Track symptoms and duration.
- Follow diagnosis and treatment from a licensed practitioner.
- Review medication side effects with your doctor.
- Seek urgent care for severe warning signs.