Unconscious Racial Bias Among Physicians and Its Impact on Adherence to Vascular Care Guidelines
By
Erika T. Beidelman
Brian Witrick
Kerry A. Howard
Ashley Clark
Katharine L. McGinigle
Samantha D. Minc
Olamide Alabi
Caitlin W. Hicks
Andrew A. Gonzalez
Crystal W. Cené
Samuel Cykert
Corey A. Kalbaugh
August 24, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Unconscious Racial Bias Among Physicians and Its Impact on Adherence to Vascular Care Guidelines
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Key Mechanisms Implicit racial bias influencing clinical decision-making and treatment disparities. Target Population Patients with symptomatic PAD, specifically Black and White individuals. Care Setting Clinical environments with established vascular care guidelines.
Key Highlights
Implicit bias among physicians may contribute to race-based health disparities. Physicians with pro-White bias less likely to prescribe appropriate treatments to Black patients. Clinical guidelines may help reduce cognitive load and implicit bias effects. Study utilized data from the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative. Focus on adherence to Class I, Level A guidelines for PAD management. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assessment of patient characteristics and medical history. Management
Preoperative prescription of antiplatelets, statins, and antihypertensives. Monitoring & Follow-up
Evaluation of treatment adherence and outcomes in relation to implicit bias. Risks
Increased long-term amputation risks associated with low-value revascularization. Patient & Prescribing Data
Black and White patients with intermittent claudication.
Adherence to guideline-directed practices is critical for equitable care.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize established guidelines to guide treatment decisions. Monitor physician implicit bias and its impact on patient care. Incorporate cognitive load considerations in clinical decision-making. Related Resources & Content
