Rheumatoid Arthritis Care Experiences of Black People Living in Canada: A Qualitative Study to Inform Health Service Improvements

ObjectiveTo understand experiences related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) care and propose service-level strategies to reduce and mitigate inequities for Black people living in Canada.MethodsPurposive and respondent driven sampling was used to recruit participants for qualitative interviews to explore population factors relevant to RA care and challenges and facilitators for access to health care services, medications, and enacting preferred treatment plans. Thematic analysis was conducted using the Braun and Clarke method with inductive and deductive coding and critical race theory guiding analysis.ResultsSix women and two men with RA, and two women health care professionals, expressed how their racial identity contributed to their understanding of RA, preferences for treatment, and outcome goals. Health care access was influenced by financial limitations and racism, by exclusion, and discrimination, and also by cultural norms in seeking health care and awareness about RA within the Black community. Participants experienced health system fragmentation and were not connected to ancillary supports. Treatment decision-making was influenced by the legacy of oppression and medical experimentation on Black people and the predominance of biomedical approaches emphasized by health care providers. Holistic and cultural approaches, provided in safe, trauma-informed care environments, with flexibility in service models, are desired. Partnerships between arthritis care services and Black community organizations are proposed to promote community awareness and knowledge about arthritis and provide support mechanisms for patients within their community.ConclusionOur study highlights unique considerations based on race and ethnicity and provides suggestions for arthritis care to mitigate inequities for Black people living with arthritis.