What does the term "prejudice" refer to in a medical context?

In a medical context, the term "prejudice" refers to prejudging a situation before having all the facts. This means forming an opinion or making a decision about a patient's condition or treatment without a comprehensive understanding based on evidence and thorough assessment. Such biases can lead to misdiagnoses or inadequate care, as they divert attention away from a nuanced evaluation of the patient's unique circumstances and needs.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of thorough investigation and objective assessment in healthcare to avoid biases that may affect the quality of care provided to patients.