The complexities of race and health.

It is widely accepted that race and related social factors largely underpin patients' access to healthcare, and even have a direct impact on patients' care. The reality that racism is the source of these health inequalities, and that racism within health organisations compounds the issue, undeniably means that racism is a public health issue. The ongoing pandemic has not only shone a light on underlying issues that have silently plagued the Black, Asian and minority ethnic community but has helped us understand the devastating impact of racism. Closing the gap in these populations is required to ensuring equitable access. This article aims to highlight how racism impacts people of colour within the healthcare system and beyond and calls for dismantling of the structural racism that exists within the NHS and other UK organisations. © Royal College of Physicians 2021. All rights reserved.