balanced representation of populations, and the role of disaggregation for calibration needs to be thoughtfully considered (44). Finally, race categories are inappropriate when what we are measuring is a color-tone scale rather than a social construct. In this research, investigators should endeavor to use objective measures of skin pigmentation over subjective definitions of race and ethnicity (45).
CONCLUSIONSDespite being considered an objective measure, robust to implicit biases, pulse oximeters add to a mounting list of chronic racial biases in medicine that may inadvertently promote inequitable outcomes. As structural racism is pervasive, we must seek to critically evaluate all factors that potentially contribute to healthcare disparities. The simple pulse oximeter has numerous limitations. A multitiered approach to improving device accuracy is crucial to advancing healthcare for all but is especially important in improving care of patients who already experience significant health disparities due to their race and/or ethnicity.