Meridian of Illinois’ Post

"Anti-Black racism is encoded within in our healthcare system". The Dept of Public Health identified #racism is a public #health crisis that is impacting birth outcomes and contributing to increased mortality in Black persons; especially women and children under age 1. We are also predisposed for immune system (stress-related) disorders. We can see the truth in the #data outcomes and there is no need to prove it any further why special focus and attention is needed for this long under-resourced and oppressed population. Now is time for action. With Birth Equity, Black Birth Equity in particular with some Managed Care Panels, as a population of focus funded through CALAIM, how are organizations preparing to #BeTheChange? The opportunity is here, don't sleep. Also don't do it yourself. If there is not a Black health care provider and/or Black consumer of your services in the room helping to make decisions; how about you hold off until you find one or three to be there throughout the process and actually listen to them and respect them and their thoughts and feedback? Awareness is only the first step to behavioral change. The next steps are written word (policies and procedures that address the problem) and then action that follow the written word in service provision. Let's go be the change together! #communityled #ECM #socialimpact #mentalhealth #blackmentalhealth #blacklivesmatter #healthcare #access

This Black History Month, we're highlighting influential Black voices and organizations who have made an impact on health equity and policy. In a May 2023 article, Andrew Anderson and coauthors shed light on the opportunity cost of not addressing disparities when developing cardiovascular disease health care policies. Read the full paper: https://hubs.la/Q02mylwB0

I'm finding more to learn and be proud of within Indiana's history, thanks to Darryl Lockett in his latest column, "The pivotal role of African Americans in medical advancements" as we recognize and celebrate Black History month. He writes, "As Health Equity Director at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, I recognize that the health inequities we face are not fated or destined, but rather challenges that we can overcome and change. At the same time, I know we stand on the shoulders of giants who have shaped Indiana’s healthcare system for the better." Please check out the article in full! https://ow.ly/fHbI30sAnfN

Make this #GivingTuesday THE BEST EVER in support of Black health. Today, we feature Article 2 of the Black Health Bill of Rights. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gyPHMBTe

#blackhistorymonth Dr. Cheryl Clark reminds us that Black individuals have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of historical injustices and its relevance to the community health center movement. Historical injustices, such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and the exploitation of black bodies for medical experimentation, have left a lasting impact on the trust and well-being of black communities. Recognizing these atrocities is essential for healing and rebuilding trust within the healthcare system. “Black History Month is also a time to celebrate the courage and accomplishments of people who advance justice in health against unimaginable odds,” said Cheryl Clark, MD, ScD, Executive Director & Senior Vice President of the Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy. “The Community Health Center movement is a key example of how people have come together to overcome discrimination, and in so doing, created a system to care for everyone.” [Read more: www.massleague.org] #communityhealthcare #healthequity #healthequitynow #chc #chcs #communityhealth #MLCHC Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers Institute for Health Equity Research, Evaluation & Policy The Castle Group Health Equity Compact

🙋♀️You’ve got the questions and we’ve got the answers!    In the spring 2024 issue of Packard Children’s News, we sat down with Amanda P. Williams, MD, MPH, FACOG, clinical innovation advisor at California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative (CMQCC) since 2022, for a Q&A about advancing Black birth equity. ❤️    Q: What’s behind California’s success in reducing maternal mortality?    Q: Even in California, there’s still a gap in outcomes for Black patients. What is CMQCC doing next to address this?    Q: How is philanthropy advancing CMQCC’s work?    📖 💡Find out the answers in the latest issue of Packard Children’s News (PCN)! Read now https://tr.ee/N3uKTJTrQN

https://lnkd.in/exntWz4G A moving impactful documentary video buried in latest NEJM considering the value of mentorship and diversity which directly and indirectly helps improve health and wellbeing in minority communities. Do take time to read, pause and reflect.

As we reflect on #BlackHistoryMonth, we share engaging conversation excerpts from the recent #webinar, “Examining History, Shaping the Future: Elevating Black Voices in Oral Health Care.” Experts discussed systemic barriers facing Black #oralhealth providers and communities. https://ow.ly/x26s50QNUJ7

Darryl Lockett column: The pivotal role of African Americans in medical advancements Access to quality healthcare is vital to the wellbeing of every American. Indiana is no different. As we celebrate Black History month, it is important to reflect on the rich history of African Americans in Indiana’s medical progress and how far we have come. As Health Equity Director at Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, I recognize that the health inequities we face are not fated or destined, but rather challenges that we can overcome and change. At the same time, I know we stand on the shoulders of giants who have shaped Indiana’s healthcare system for the better. https://ow.ly/UbpN30sA8XU

My book copy is on its way, Uché Blackstock, MD Keep up the great and important work you are doing! #amazingwomen #womenchangemakers #bebold #leadership #ubuntu #goasktammy. Robert Lanza you may find this of interest in your studies.