Racial and ethnic disparities persist in the use of restraints and sedation by emergency medical services (EMS) for patients with behavioral health emergencies. A study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that Hispanic and Black patients are more likely to be physically restrained or chemically sedated compared to their White counterparts. Specifically, 10.6% of Hispanic patients and 7.9% of Black patients experienced restraint or sedation, while only 6.1% of White patients faced similar measures.
Dr. Diana M. Bongiorno of Harvard Medical School, the study’s lead author, emphasizes that these disparities reflect broader systemic issues within emergency care. The study analyzed data from over 661,000 EMS encounters, highlighting significant differences in treatment based on race and ethnicity. These findings suggest that minority patients are disproportionately subjected to more aggressive interventions during behavioral health crises.
The study calls for urgent reforms to address these inequities, advocating for training programs that focus on cultural competence and bias reduction among EMS providers. Dr. Gregory A. Peters, co-author of the study, notes that improving communication and understanding between EMS personnel and minority communities is crucial for reducing these disparities.
Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach, including policy changes and community engagement to ensure equitable treatment for all patients. By recognizing and tackling these disparities, the healthcare system can improve outcomes for minority patients and promote fairness in emergency medical care.
See: “Racial and Ethnic Disparities in EMS Use of Restraints and Sedation for Patients With Behavioral Health Emergencies” (March 20, 2025)