Can bias training help doctors talk fairly to all families?

NCT ID NCT05165888

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a training program to help doctors reduce racial bias when talking to families of seriously ill patients. Twenty-two doctors participated in simulated conversations with a Black actor playing a family member. The goal was to see if bias training improved communication compared to standard communication training alone. The study was small and completed, providing early insights into how to make end-of-life care more equitable.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Communication and Bias Mitigation Training

What this could lead to

If successful, this training could help doctors communicate more fairly with families of all backgrounds during end-of-life care.

What could go wrong

This was a small pilot study with only 22 doctors, so results may not apply to all doctors or real-world settings. The training's long-term impact is unknown.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Communication Critical Illness

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Montefiore Medical Center

    The Bronx, New York, 10467, United States