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# When Machines Prescribe
- URL: https://www.cascadepbs.org/show/nova/specials/when-machines-prescribe-lpqvdt/
- Published: 2025-04-28T20:45:49.000Z
- Updated: 2025-08-21T12:04:40.000Z
- Description: Investigate medical algorithms in which the patient’s race drives decisions.
- Author: Cascade PBS Staff
- Tags: NOVA, #ZZZ_Show_8f1ff589-6222-4260-acbf-0523a6424abf, #v1.7, #ZZZ_Special_0500613c-c7a0-4563-8efd-2d94f97c4fbd, #special

Doctors rely on computer programs to make decisions about diagnosis and treatment. Designed to weigh factors like symptoms, medical history, and test results to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients, some common medical algorithms were built using data based on old pseudoscience about racial differences. Investigate how their continued use has harmed the health of Black patients.