Inequities in HCP Training and Practices [REPORT]

Havas Health Network, the largest global health and wellness network, and Republica Havas Health, the award-winning cross-cultural healthcare and pharma marketing agency of Havas, have launched “The Hidden Divide: Examining Inequities in Healthcare Provider Training and Practices.”

The Executive Report explores long-standing inequities within healthcare provider (HCP) training and practices—often-overlooked factors in health disparities. It leverages peer-reviewed research, policy analysis, expert commentary, and industry data.

Co-authors include: Suketu Patel, MD, PhD, Global Chief Medical Officer, Havas Health Network; Eirasmin Lokpez-Cobo, MA, MS, Executive Vice President, Brand Strategy Health, Republica Havas Health; Brianna Calderon-Roman, MS, Senior Health Strategist, Republica Havas Health; and Jarvier Mohammed, PhD, Scientific Associate, Havas Health Network.

The report identifies three key drivers of provider-driven health inequities:

• Lack of Representation: When HCPs don’t reflect patient populations, trust and care quality decline.
• Medical Bias: Biases—conscious or not—impact provider decision-making and outcomes.
• Cultural Gaps in Care: Limited training and self-reflection hampers communication with diverse patients.

“Social Determinants of Health are crucial, but we must also address inequities on the provider side,” said Lokpez-Cobo, a recipient of MM+M’s Women of Distinction Award. “Improving health outcomes means understanding the whole care equation.”

The report traces the evolution of health equity initiatives since the 1980s and emphasizes the rising need for culturally competent care as the U.S. becomes increasingly diverse.

“Physician-patient trust is the foundation of equitable healthcare,” said Dr. Patel. “We must acknowledge and address the role of providers in closing the equity gap.”

To download report, CLICK HERE.