Mediators of discrimination in primary care appointment access

We examine how differences in questions asked and information provided by physicians’ offices contribute to differences in new-patient appointment offers. Data is from a 2013–16 field experiment involving calls to a random sample of US primary care physicians on behalf of simulated new patients differentiated by race/ethnicity (Black, Hispanic, White), sex, and insurance. We find that the rates and stated reasons for denial of appointment offers differ substantially across patient groups. •2013–2016 field experiment on access to primary care physicians for new patients.•Examined questions asked, information provided, and stated reasons for refusals.•Race/ethnicity and sex disparities in appointment offer rates, insurance acceptance, and being told, “not taking new patients”.•Both statistical and taste-based discrimination may occur in medical appointment scheduling.