Navigating Health Disparities

A Call for Creativity in Addressing Racial Inequities

As a Black health coach who grew up in New Jersey and now lives in Massachusetts, I have seen firsthand the health disparities in our communities. These inequalities, particularly among Black women and other people of color, are deeply rooted in systemic racism and contribute to significant health disparities. 

In an unsurprising move, the Supreme Court declared unconstitutional Harvard University and the University of North Carolina’s use of race as a factor in admissions programs (Lopez, 2023). While unsurprising, this landmark decision highlights the ongoing struggle for racial equality in various aspects of society. Although this ruling specifically pertains to higher education admissions, it should serve as a warning and catalyst for change in all fields, including healthcare. Thus, this case is a powerful reminder to health coaches like myself that we must think outside the box and be creative in our practices to tackle health disparities head-on.

Understanding Health Disparities and Racial Inequities

Braveman et al. (2006) refer to health disparities as differences in health outcomes experienced by disadvantaged groups that prevent them from achieving optimal health. Sadly, these disparities often fall along racial lines, with Black women and people of color disproportionately affected. Factors such as socioeconomic status, limited access to quality healthcare, unequal educational opportunities, and implicit bias within the healthcare system all contribute to these disparities. As health coaches and providers, we must understand these health disparities and become more creative in addressing inequities in our healthcare systems. 

5 Creative Approaches to Addressing Health Disparities

1. Culturally Competent Care

Recognizing and addressing cultural biases within healthcare is crucial. Health coaches must educate themselves on the unique experiences, challenges, and perspectives of Black women and people of color. By incorporating cultural competency into our practices, we can ensure that our services are sensitive, inclusive, and tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients.

2. Community Engagement

Engaging with local communities is essential to understanding their health concerns. Health coaches should actively participate in community events, establish partnerships with local organizations, and listen to the voices of those directly affected by health disparities. We can better address their needs and challenges by involving the community in designing and implementing health programs.

3. Education and Empowerment

Education is a powerful tool in promoting health equity. Health coaches can empower individuals by providing accessible, evidence-based information about healthy lifestyle choices, preventive care, and disease management. Thus, supporting our clients to make informed decisions equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to impact their health positively.

4. Collaboration and Advocacy

Health coaches should actively collaborate with other healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to advocate for policies and initiatives that promote health equity. By joining forces with like-minded individuals and organizations, we can amplify our impact and drive systemic change that addresses the root causes of health disparities.

5. Mentorship and Representation

Representation matters. As health coaches, we can serve as mentors and role models for aspiring healthcare professionals from marginalized communities. By actively supporting and guiding underrepresented individuals in the field, we can help foster a diverse and inclusive healthcare workforce better equipped to address the needs of all individuals.

Here’s Your Call to Action 

The recent Supreme Court decision is a poignant reminder that racial discrimination has no place in our society. As health coaches, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to address health disparities for Black women and people of color. We can make meaningful strides toward achieving health equity by employing creative approaches emphasizing cultural competence, community engagement, education, collaboration, and representation. Let us seize this moment as an opportunity to work together to build a future where everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity, has access to the resources and opportunities necessary for optimal health and well-being.

Remember, health disparities are not insurmountable barriers; we can creatively overcome these challenges together!

References 

Braveman, P.A., Kumanyika, S., Fielding, J., LaVeist, T., Borrell, L.N., Manderscheid, R., and Troutman, A. Health disparities and health equity: The issue is justice. Annual Review of Public Health 27: 167-194. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.publhealth.27.021405.102103 

Lopez, G. (2023, June 30). The end of affirmative action. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/30/briefing/affirmative-action-supreme-court-decision.html