April marks National Minority Health Month, providing an opportunity to spotlight the ongoing health disparities experienced by racial and ethnic minority communities throughout the United States. More than a healthcare issue, these disparities are deeply rooted in broader social determinants of health (SDOH), such as access to nutritious food, stable housing, and quality education.
A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) found that among Medicare beneficiaries, people of color are more likely to report poorer health, experience higher rates of chronic conditions, and have fewer preventative doctor visits. In addition, they also face higher rates of hospital admissions and emergency room visits.
This month not only reminds us of the challenges at hand but also provides an opportunity to recognize the progress being made. The transition to value-based care and the efforts of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) play a pivotal role in reducing health disparities and promoting health equity, particularly for diverse communities.
However, transforming our health system into a more equitable one requires the collaboration of all stakeholders—healthcare organizations, policymakers, community groups, and health professionals. By uniting our efforts, we can build a healthcare landscape that ensures equitable access and quality care for all communities.
As the month comes to an ends, let’s not lose momentum. Instead, let’s recognize the challenges, celebrate our collective progress, and reinforce our commitment to collaborative action, ensuring that our journey toward health equity continues beyond this month.
