Ep 10. When Machines Prescribe

Doctors rely on medical algorithms to make decisions about diagnosis and treatment. These computer programs are designed to take into account factors like symptoms, medical history, and test results to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. But what if some of the data fed into the computer are based on old pseudoscience about racial differences? NOVA investigates common medical algorithms in which the patient's race drives clinical decision-making – and how their continued use has harmed the health of Black patients.