This article presents data from focus groups conducted with traditionally underrepresented groups with spinal cord injury (SCI), specifically women and African American men. The narratives are first-hand accounts of encounters with the health care system and providers and offer insights into how the delivery and quality of health care and the subsequent health outcomes can be compromised by the interactions between patients and providers. The participants’ views on and suggestions for improved provider-patient interactions and health care delivery are also included.
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