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Race and gender disparities in pain treatment and opioid prescribing

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  • Torres, Peter Joseph

Abstract

This study employs corpus-based discourse analysis to investigate racial and gender disparities in opioid prescribing practices. Analysis of 171 medical interactions in the United States from 2008 to 2020, drawn from the Verilogue corpus of doctor-patient dialogue, revealed a significant relationship between patients' race and physicians' prescribing behaviors. By systematically examining the stages in which patients were either prescribed or denied opioids, this study quantifies the challenges faced by patients as they navigate opioid-related discussions.

Suggested Citation

  • Torres, Peter Joseph, 2025. "Race and gender disparities in pain treatment and opioid prescribing," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 374(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:374:y:2025:i:c:s0277953625003417
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118011
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    References listed on IDEAS

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