Abstract Background Ethnic minority patients living in the devolved nations of the United Kingdom (UK) may face additional or unique challenges in managing their cardiovascular health. This ethnographic study provides a snapshot of the experiences of nine patients. Purpose The project was undertaken to gather in-depth insights from a patient group that has historically been marginalised from the knowledge base. The research focused on ethnic health inequalities with a core aim of understanding and identifying the factors that may contribute to poorer patient experiences and outcomes. Addressing this knowledge gap is crucial for developing effective support and improving patient outcomes. Methods A qualitative ethnographic approach was employed, involving in-home ethnographies with nine participants from diverse ethnic backgrounds, geographically spread across the UK devolved nations. Additionally, online focus groups with community support groups were conducted to explore findings further and consider possible solutions. Results The study highlighted that continued racism, a broken healthcare system, and inconsistent care create a foundation for ethnic inequalities in heart health. Both overt and subtle racism contribute to exclusion and heightened stress. Lack of culturally sensitive healthcare makes it difficult for patients to manage their health effectively, and they often feel unheard, leading to poor adherence to medical advice. Inconsistent care, including delayed appointments, further exacerbates challenges. Conflicting and unclear information about ethnicity's influence on CVD risk and treatment effectiveness causes confusion and stigma. Limited coordination between CVD and other conditions like diabetes makes navigating information difficult. At diagnosis, patients struggle with overwhelming and complex information. Trust in health systems is complex, with individuals often unaware of support organisations or feeling they do not benefit from their services. Community networks can help address heart health inequalities, but fragmentation and lack of support post-COVID have weakened these networks. While community support is valued, individuals sometimes prefer confiding in outsiders due to fear of judgement. The research emphasised focusing on individual experiences rather than ethnicities. The intersectional nature of health, including culture, religion, gender, and socioeconomic status, is more relevant than a singular ethnic lens. Conclusion Although based on a small sample of nine patients, the ethnographic approach provided rich insights into the complex factors contributing to ethnic inequalities in heart health across the UK devolved nations. The findings suggest that addressing these inequalities requires a multifaceted approach that considers the unique experiences and challenges faced by patients.
Costa et al. (Sat,) studied this question.