Equal Hope’s Post

“We have a robust healthcare system, but who was it designed to serve?” This was one of the many powerful statements from the panel at the Equal Hope Health Equity Breakfast. Although we have many advances in healthcare, this event was a stark reminder that barriers to healthcare still remain for historically underserved populations. Panelists told their own stories of their experiences of inequitable treatment and access to healthcare. Alderperson Fuentes recounted being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, but being unsure on how to afford the high cost of care as a college student. Representative Evans discussed being diagnosed with cancer, but told by several doctors that it was asthma initially. It wasn’t until he ended up in the hospital with tumors pushing against his esophagus that physicians finally ordered the diagnostic imaging, and realized that he needed surgery immediately. We were also reminded that although we have telemedicine, there are areas in Chicago that still don’t have access to broadband internet, limiting their access to care. These stories, and many others illustrate the systemic barriers to healthcare access, and why healthcare equity is needed now more than ever. The panelists emphasized the power of community, advocacy, and communication. Now more that ever, it’s imperative to use our knowledge as physicians and scientists to engage our communities, and promote healthcare literacy and quality healthcare for all. Thank you to Illinois State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr., MATTER CEO Steven Collens, Equal Hope Board President Dr. Patricia Robinson, and 26th Ward Alderperson Jessie Fuentes for sharing these critical insights. Thank you Equal Hope CEO Dr. Paris Thomas for hosting this timely and empowering event. For more information on the event, see the following link: https://lnkd.in/egQmBcJW #healthequity #healthdisparities #healthcare #advocacy