Algorithms and Health Disparities

Algorithms shape people’s health in ways large and small.

Risk calculators help clinicians decide whose kidneys are failing, who is at risk of heart disease or osteoporosis, or who might benefit from certain cancer drugs or earlier screening exams. These algorithms may be old-school mathematical formulas or more sophisticated versions based on machine learning and artificial intelligence. But many introduce – either explicitly or inadvertently – disparities as a result of a person’s race, ethnicity, and ancestry. Understanding how these algorithms are developed is key to reporting on them. In these pages, you’ll find tip sheets, explainers, interviews with experts, story ideas, and more to help you report on this essential aspect of modern health care.