Using Technological Politics to Examine Racial Healthcare Disparities in Neonatal Jaundice Assessment

In this paper, I present a comprehensive analysis of the racial biases inherent in the current approach to neonatal jaundice assessment using transcutaneous bilirubinometry (TcB) devices. I begin by contextualizing neonatal jaundice as a significant health concern affecting a substantial portion of infants, particularly those born prematurely or with darker skin tones. While TcB devices offer a non-invasive and efficient method for assessing bilirubin levels, recent research indicates a tendency for these devices to overestimate bilirubin levels in infants with darker skin tones, leading to unnecessary phototherapy treatments.

Employing a framework of Technological Politics, I argue that design choices in TcB devices inadvertently privilege infants with lighter skin tones while marginalizing and potentially harming those with darker skin tones. By analyzing peer-reviewed literature and empirical evidence, I demonstrate how these biases perpetuate racial healthcare disparities in neonatal care. My analysis further delves into the implications of TcB overestimations, including the potential adverse effects of phototherapy on infants, such as disruptions to mother-infant bonding, short-term physiological effects, and long-term health risks. These risks emphasize the urgency of addressing racial biases in neonatal care technologies to ensure equitable healthcare access for all infants.

In conclusion, I call for a reevaluation of TcB device design and application to mitigate racial biases and promote inclusivity in neonatal care. I advocate for a shift towards inclusive medical technology development and emphasize the importance of diversity in clinical studies to address the specific needs of all racial and ethnic groups in healthcare practices.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

STS Advisor: Benjamin Laugelli