Chronic Illness and Antisemitism

About a month after October 7th—a date that has become a pivotal moment for Jewish communities worldwide—I came across a social media post that struck a deep chord within me. The post featured a young, visibly Jewish boy receiving a medical infusion. His Orthodox family was easily identifiable; both he and his father were wearing kippot, symbols of their faith. The family expressed distress over the Palestinian flag pins displayed prominently on the neckband of the infusion nurse. This image, while seemingly isolated, encapsulated a growing concern among many Jews regarding their safety and dignity in healthcare settings. I knew that this was just the beginning. 

As a therapist who lives with and specializes in health care conditions, I found myself reflecting on a troubling realization: I have never had to worry about whether my Jewish identity might jeopardize the quality of my healthcare. For patients and caregivers, the relationships they form with their medical teams are not merely important; they are vital to effective treatment and recovery. Numerous studies have shown that positive relationships between patients and healthcare providers lead to improved health outcomes. When patients feel understood and respected, they are more likely to adhere to treatment plans and communicate openly about their needs. Yet, a troubling power dynamic complicates this relationship. If patients do not feel comfortable or safe with their providers, the quality of their care can suffer significantly. 

This raises a critical question: What happens when political affiliations and social activism infiltrate healthcare dynamics? In our current climate, marked by rising hostility towards Jews and the pervasive influence of social media, it is alarmingly easy to witness instances of antisemitism among healthcare providers. Patients now find themselves grappling not only with the fear that their providers may be unable to care for them adequately but also with the more profound concern of whether they can feel psychologically safe while receiving that care. Until October 7th, this was not a worry for my patients, my peers, or myself. 

If my Jewish identity can influence these essential relationships, should I consider how it may impact my healthcare experience? Do I need to conceal my Star of David in order to secure timely appointments? How would I feel if a nurse entered my home wearing a keffiyeh, a symbol often associated with political resistance? What if they reacted negatively to the mezuzahs on my door or I mention that I am unavailable for an appointment due to a Jewish holiday? These questions weigh heavily on my mind, and they are not solely hypothetical; they reflect a growing concern among many in the Jewish community about being treated poorly or unfairly because of their identity. The fear that patients may need to downplay their cultural practices in order to receive fair treatment is deeply concerning. Such a reality not only infringes upon individual rights but also erodes the very fabric of the patient-provider relationship, which should be built on mutual respect and understanding. The notion that one's identity could be a barrier to receiving compassionate and equitable care is not just disheartening; it is a violation of the ethical principles that underpin medical practice. 

Since October 7th, antisemitism has surfaced in various medical settings. I have heard from patients who reported antisemitic remarks made while receiving care, as well as colleagues who work in health care settings who have described their experiences with discrimination. In a Jewish social workers' group dedicated to combating antisemitism, some visibly Jewish members were informed by their hospital supervisors that certain patients refused to work with them. This behavior, which would be deemed unacceptable in virtually any other context, has somehow been tolerated in the healthcare sector. 

The field of medicine has historically served as a refuge for Jewish individuals. Over the past century, a disproportionate number of Jewish people have pursued careers in medicine due to being pushed out of other fields. For over sixty years, healthcare settings have generally been safe spaces where Jewish professionals could thrive, and patients could feel reassured that they would not face discrimination as they might in other institutional settings. However, what happens when Jewish physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers find themselves facing discrimination from their peers? The medical team relationship is built on trust, and any breach of that trust can have dire consequences for both providers and patients. 

Given our current environment, it is important to be prepared. 

How to Handle Antisemitism in Healthcare Settings 

Safety First 

It’s essential to prioritize your health care outcomes. Do not allow a provider’s personal views to jeopardize your well-being. Remember, as a patient, you have rights. Just as there are protections against medical malpractice and neglect, the law also safeguards against health care discrimination. Familiarize yourself with your rights as a patient or caregiver, so you can take action if you encounter antisemitism in a healthcare setting. Discrimination against various underserved communities is unfortunately not a new issue.

Understanding Trauma 

As a medical trauma expert, I recognize how often trauma can impact patients during ongoing care. When antisemitism is introduced into this equation, it can activate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering a complex trauma response. Be aware of your own triggers and acknowledge that medical trauma is real. Antisemitism in healthcare can exacerbate these reactions. Learn coping strategies to manage medical trauma, and seek mental health support when necessary. 

Request a Different Provider 

Remember, you are the consumer in the healthcare relationship. Patients choose their providers for various reasons—perhaps a provider was unavailable or didn’t spend enough time on your case. If you experience medical gaslighting or feel unsupported, don’t hesitate to ask for a different provider. If a practitioner displays any form of antisemitic behavior, request a new provider immediately. You can inform the front desk about your discomfort with a lab tech, radiology technician, nurse, or physician. You can also report the incident and seek further action if needed. 

Speak Out 

If your coping strategy involves speaking up, do so. This approach can be empowering. I have directly communicated with medical professionals when they’ve made antisemitic comments, explaining how their remarks made me feel uncomfortable. Sometimes, these interactions can serve as valuable teaching moments. 

You Are Not Alone 

Many Jewish providers are still active in the healthcare field. Consider choosing offices and physicians who are Jewish—many individuals naturally prefer this option. Knowing that your healthcare provider is Jewish may reduce the likelihood of encountering antisemitic behavior. Look for hospitals that have a zero-tolerance policy for such conduct. By staying informed, especially regarding hospitals affiliated with academic institutions, you can better navigate environments that may be influenced by antisemitism.

Jodi Taub, LCSW

Website:  joditaubtherapy.com
Email: jodi@joditaubtherapy.com