Disparities In Heathcare

I was able to examine multiple health related sites, which consistently provided information pertaining to disparities in healthcare. What was amazing was how consistent systemic racial practices has played a major role in condoning these disparities. The communities of color are constantly underrepresented in receiving quality healthcare. Historically, due to cultural bias, low social economic, poor healthcare, lack of trust, many of
these communities have not been able to obtain equitable healthcare provided to
other communities.

The COVID -19 Pandemic is one of the current issues pertaining to healthcare disparities. The disproportionate impact of the pandemic on black and brown communities must be addressed to ensure equitable access to the vaccine. as of August 4, the COVID-19 related death rate among Black people was over twice as high as the rate for White people (S.Artiga, B Corallo, O.Pham). The Kaiser Family Foundation reported on May 21, 2021, individuals receiving at least one vaccination 62%white, 14% Latinx, 9% Black, 6% Asian, and 1% American Indian or Alaska Native, which is an indication of some of the disparities in healthcare.

Comorbid diseases also play a key role in some of the healthcare disparities. Strokes are very prevalent in African American communities. African Americans are twice likely to have a stroke as their white counterparts and are the highest group among other racial groups impacted by strokes (CDC). Black men are 60 percent more likely to die from a stroke as compared to non-Hispanic white male (OMH). Individuals suffering from a stroke have reported having symptoms of depression. Depression symptoms consist of isolation, lack of interests, hopelessness, change in eating and sleeping and other behaviors exhibited by an individual. Access to equitable healthcare programs and treatment to address depression and stroke has impact mortality and the quality of life for communities of color.

In order to change these and other healthcare disparities toward communities of color, more education and equitable policies and procedures in healthcare must address this issue. More preventive and interventive programs in communities of color can assist in bridging the gap of those lacking the resources and access to equitable care, which can decrease the mortality rate in these communities. community must look at preventive and interventive programs in communities of color.

References:

Samantha Artiga, Bradley Corolla, Oliva Pham: Racial Disparities in COVID -19: Key Findings from Available Data and Analysis August 17, 2020 

https://www.kff.org/report-section/racial-disparities-in-covid-19-key-findings-from-available-data-and-analysis-appendix/

Center For Disease and Control and Prevention; Stroke Facts

United States Department Health of Human Services Office of Minority Health:  https://www.minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/find.aspx