Methods: We employed interpretive description to explore the experiences of Black patients receiving CTS care at a single academic medical center in the Midwest. Participants completed in-depth, one-on-one interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to identify key themes and strategies to improve patient-provider communication.
Results: Twenty-eight individuals participated in the study; 80% were women. Three key themes emerged: Dismissiveness, Lack of Empathy, and Power of Information. Participants described feeling their concerns were minimized or overlooked. One stated, "I felt dismissed when I said my symptoms were worse, and the doctor just told me to wait and see." (Participant 3). Some perceived this treatment as shaped by racial bias, expressing concern that their symptoms might have been taken more seriously if they were of a different race. Others noted a lack of emotional support, particularly regarding their physical suffering: "They acted like I was just another patient on their list, not someone struggling with daily pain." (Participant 5). The third theme highlighted the importance of transparent communication. Patients reported that vague or insufficient explanations left them uncertain and anxious: "They didn't explain why they recommended certain tests, so I felt in the dark." (Participant 11). Open, thorough communication helped foster trust and improved patient engagement in treatment decisions.
Conclusion: This study demonstrates how communication dynamics can either hinder or support care for Black patients with CTS, particularly in racially discordant encounters. Dismissiveness and lack of empathy eroded trust and shaped negative care experiences, while clarity and transparency helped patients feel empowered and engaged. To address racial disparities and promote equitable treatment outcomes in CTS and similar conditions, it is essential to center patient perspectives and recognize the role of communication in shaping healthcare experiences.
