Disparate Impact: How Colorblind Policies Exacerbate Black–White Health Inequities

This commentary uses illustrative examples in clinical practice, financing policies, and COVID-19 vaccination policies to show how policies designed to ensure that all persons are treated the same regardless of race may exacerbate inequities.

Use this article to:

  • Identify examples of colorblind policies that may exacerbate inequities.
  • Think about alternative policies and practices that could help to minimize inequities.
  • Identify potential unintended adverse consequences of the alternative policies and practices they proposed.

Annals of Internal Medicine is the premier internal medicine academic journal published by the American College of Physicians (ACP). It is one of the most widely cited and influential specialty medical journals in the world.

Back to the December 2021 issue of ACP IMpact