Efforts to address healthcare disparities in the United States were highlighted at the recent State of Black Health forum held on February 3, 2023, in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. During the event, five individuals were honored as Health Equity Champions for their commitment to bridging the racial, gender, and economic gaps in healthcare access.
The forum, organized by the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg and sponsored by PennLive, emphasized a troubling reality: a person’s zip code can significantly influence their health outcomes and longevity. Healthcare experts convey that many individuals face barriers to essential health information and resources. In some areas, known as “food deserts,” access to affordable fresh produce is severely limited, further exacerbating health inequities.
One of the keynote speakers, Dr. Sharee Livingston, who leads the Ob/Gyn department at UPMC Lititz, provided sobering statistics about maternal health disparities. She stated that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts. Dr. Livingston attributed these discrepancies to structural racism, implicit bias, and inadequate healthcare quality.
Dr. Livingston is also a co-founder of the Diversifying Doulas Initiative, a group focused on improving care for Black women during pregnancy. The initiative aims to address the inequities that exist within maternal healthcare, striving to create a more equitable system.
Col. Jim Williams, a retired U.S. Army officer and prostate cancer advocate, was also recognized at the forum. Williams has dedicated himself to raising awareness about prostate health, encouraging men to prioritize regular check-ups. His mantra, “Don’t fear the finger,” highlights the importance of proactive healthcare measures, especially for men who often neglect their health.
Phyllis Hicks, Executive Director of the Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, was another honoree. With nearly a decade of service, Hicks has worked tirelessly to ensure equitable treatment options for Black Americans, who often face barriers to kidney transplant acceptance. Her efforts include supporting families dealing with chronic kidney disease and overseeing programs like Camp Kydnie, which serves children with kidney conditions.
Also recognized were Kathleen McKenzie, Vice President of Community Affairs at Highmark Inc., and Leilyn A. Perri, Director of Communications Services for Highmark Blue Shield. Both women have played pivotal roles in healthcare education, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their initiatives contributed to the vaccination of nearly 10,000 individuals across eastern Pennsylvania, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare information.
McKenzie’s work extends beyond Highmark, as she actively serves on the boards of organizations like the Capital Region United Way and the Ronald McDonald House of Central PA, advocating for health equity in the community.
The collective efforts of these Health Equity Champions underscore a critical message: access to quality healthcare should not be determined by one’s zip code. Their dedication to addressing and dismantling these barriers offers hope for a more equitable future in healthcare, where all individuals have the opportunity to achieve optimal health.
As the statistics reveal, healthcare disparities remain a pressing issue, and the work of these champions is vital in creating a landscape where everyone has equal access to health resources. The State of Black Health forum served as a reminder that while challenges persist, there are individuals and organizations actively working to drive change and improve health outcomes for all.