Nov 29, 2024 Story by: Editor
Federal investigators examining Cedars-Sinai Health System have found potential violations of anti-discrimination laws in its treatment of Black pregnant patients, according to a “letter of concern” from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
“Our investigation has uncovered evidence that Cedars-Sinai may have engaged in a pattern of inaction and/or neglect concerning the health risks associated with Black maternity patients,” stated the OCR in its letter dated Nov. 12.
The federal review, ongoing for more than two years, has not yet reached any final conclusions. However, preliminary findings suggest that Black patients may have received a lower standard of care than their white counterparts, particularly in cases involving obstetric hemorrhage.
The OCR recommended several measures for Cedars-Sinai to ensure compliance with federal laws, noting that such steps could facilitate a voluntary resolution and suspend further investigation.
Cedars-Sinai, in a statement, expressed disagreement with the department’s assertions but reaffirmed its commitment to improving maternal health equity. “We respectfully disagree with the department’s assertions but pledge to continue working to improve maternal health equity,” the statement read.
The health system highlighted its ongoing efforts, which began prior to the federal review, including implicit bias training for staff, equity-focused roles, and over $2.2 million in grants to nonprofits addressing Black maternal health. Cedars-Sinai emphasized that the letter reflected “preliminary findings with no final conclusions or decisions.”
An HHS spokesperson confirmed that the letter is a preliminary document, with Cedars-Sinai cooperating throughout the investigation. “We look forward to their continued cooperation and work towards reaching a voluntary resolution soon to improve upon health disparities and maternal health outcomes — a goal shared by Cedars-Sinai and HHS,” the spokesperson said.
The OCR’s review pointed to deviations from Cedars-Sinai’s standards of hemorrhage care, notably in the case of Kira Johnson, who died in 2016 following a caesarean section. Her death, attributed to hemorrhagic shock, spurred lawsuits and public scrutiny.
The OCR cited delays in Johnson’s diagnosis and treatment, including a nearly 10-hour delay in returning her to the operating room. Additionally, a doctor involved in her care, Dr. Arjang Naim, allegedly made unsubstantiated and racially biased statements about Black women, according to the letter. Dr. Naim did not respond to requests for comment.
The federal review also raised concerns over disparities in care for 38 patients who experienced postpartum hemorrhaging. In 14 cases, treatment appeared inconsistent with protocols, with race cited as a potential factor.
The OCR noted other reports of racial discrimination, including allegations of inadequate pain management for Black patients. Data from Cedars-Sinai revealed that Black patients reported higher levels of postpartum pain and had higher rates of caesarean sections than other groups.
The agency urged Cedars-Sinai to take additional steps, such as creating an online tool for reporting bias and reviewing maternal care protocols. Implementing these measures could lead to a resolution without further enforcement actions.
Attorney Nick Rowley, representing Kira Johnson’s family, acknowledged the steps outlined by the OCR but called for more substantial change. “We need radical change if we’re going to save lives and keep Black mothers from dying,” Rowley said.
The investigation underscores persistent racial disparities in maternal health and highlights the need for systemic reforms to ensure equitable care for all patients. Source: Yahoo News
