Community News Flash
Healthcare Disparities in the Black Community Tori Bowie, Victim By Marjorie Middleton We are still seeking equality in a world that was not designed for us, only built by us thru the hard work of our ancestors and present-day successes and contributions. It is reported that 25% of Black people do not get healthcare because they fear being treated unfairly. Many feel that by speaking up the outcomes of exams may be affected. Medical racism exists and it attributes mainly to problems faced concerning health, including not being treated or spoken to in a respectful manner. Unbelievably, many doctors and other healthcare professionals believe that people of color do not experience pain like other people do. Studies even found that Black cancer patients got fewer opioids for pain than white patients because they were not believed. Thankfully, there are Black doctors and other professionals committed to the cause of making sure that all patients receive adequate healthcare and treatment. There are many organizations that are willing to be of support. We should also be encouraging young members of our communities to become a part of the solution by becoming involved in the healthcare profession. Becoming a talented Black pioneer will certainly change the narrative. Quality and quantity are important factors of care. Yet, a recent study shows a loss of Medicaid’s supplemental coverage disproportionally harms Black, and Hispanic, patients (Black Physicians & Healthcare Network). As income levels rise those who were recipients of supplemental Medicaid coverage now experience higher out-of-pocket expenses and will skip appointments due to overwhelming costs at the doctor’s office. This hurdle is mostly felt by older patients and there is a significant need to minimize that potential. During the peak of the Covid-19 Pandemic, Medicaid users increased because of the public health emergency, but the health emergency recently ended in May. Many will still be affected, of course, as increases in family funds occur due to returning to work which disables members from re-applying for Medicaid. Along with increased incomes, missed recertification dates and administrative errors will prevent coverages. So, by losing crucial care and dual eligibility those affected will tend to only seek care when in more advanced stages of illnesses. Chronic conditions, which can be managed, then become life-threatening. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are included. 46 Vision & Purpose Community Magazine
