Authors: Shawn Stewart, DNP, RN, CCM, CCDS and Karin VanZant, MPA
In the pursuit of a just and inclusive healthcare system, the pivotal concept of health equity has rightfully taken center stage. Health equity is an aspirational goal rooted in the context of a history marked by discrimination and lack of access for a subset of the population. This historical context has led to create generational outcomes we refer to as health disparities. While health equity has been a theoretical concept for many years, it’s now transitioning into an active strategy for many companies in addition to the evolution of health equity on the state-level. Recent surveys show that only up to 60% of organizations have adopted equity strategies within the last five years.1
Expanding Collaborative Partnerships for Inclusive Care
As we navigate the intricate landscape of healthcare delivery, a critical examination of the role of health equity in medical management becomes imperative. The examination goes beyond the boundaries of case management and utilization management operations. It also embraces the expansion of collaborative partnerships with community-based organizations and social service agencies. we can effectively address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations, ensuring that no one is left behind, and building a robust healthcare ecosystem that guarantees equitable access to care for every individual.
We all recognize that community collaboration is crucial for “wrapping” care around our members. However, we also need to acknowledge the collaborative approach required among different departments within the health plan. Health equity isn’t merely a single departmental function; it’s a collective responsibility for the entire health plan. Every person within the health plan holds the responsibility of identifying ways to increase access, improve efficiency and guarantee quality care for all members. Strengthening the understanding of interdependencies between departments is pivotal for delivering better care.
Cultural Competence and Effective Communication
At the core of health equity lies cultural competence and effective communication—fundamental skills for all healthcare staff. By embracing diverse cultural backgrounds and customs, understanding historical policies, and acknowledging ideological and religious beliefs about healthcare and practices, healthcare professionals can create an atmosphere of respect and inclusivity.
A cornerstone of this approach is recognizing language barriers as potential obstacles. Access to interpretation and translation services must be readily available for those with limited English proficiency and individuals with disabilities affecting speech, hearing, or understanding. This simple yet impactful intervention paves the way for enhanced health equity. Through training and education, the cultural gap can be bridged, leading to more equitable and patient-centered care.
Addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Upfront
Healthcare cannot exist in isolation from the social determinants that shape our well-being. To address root causes, assessment tools must integrate screenings for SDOH as part of the core process. By recognizing the influential factors that can impact health outcomes, such as housing inadequacy, education disparities, and income inequality, a more comprehensive and empathetic care approach can be provided. Advancing health equity necessitates the implementation of initiatives that ensure not only access to clinical and behavioral healthcare but also target disparities linked to SDOH.
Interventions to be considered include:
- Implementing policies that address income inequality and improve economic stability for marginalized populations.
- Enhancing educational opportunities and literacy to empower individuals to make informed health decisions.
- Investing in community development and infrastructure to create healthier neighborhoods.
- Strengthening social support networks to combat social isolation and improve mental health.
- Expanding access to affordable and culturally competent healthcare services.
By infusing health equity principles into programs and policies that address social determinants, we can foster an unbiased and more just healthcare system where every individual has an equal opportunity to lead a healthier life.
Data-Driven Strategies for Mitigating Disparities
Addressing health disparities necessitates a thorough examination of available data. Health plans must proactively collect and analyze information on health outcomes across diverse individual populations. By defining and categorizing populations based on variables like race, ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, and geographic location, plans can measure and compare health outcomes. Armed with this knowledge, case managers can tailor strategies to mitigate disparities and improve healthcare delivery.
Achieving health equity requires a collective commitment. Health plans must set measurable health equity goals and metrics within their case management and utilization management operations. Using statistical analysis to compare key indicators between varying populations and keeping the team informed of identified disparities marks a solid first step. Employing visual aids such as charts, graphs, and maps enhances communication and comprehension of health equity patterns and trends.
A Path to Health Equity: Measurable Goals & Culturally Tailored Interventions
A one-size-fits-all approach falls short when striving for health equity. Instead, health plans must design culturally tailored interventions and health education programs. By understanding and respecting diverse cultural norms, we can shape interventions that resonate with each unique community. Regular tracking and monitoring of progress enable the evaluation of intervention efficacy. Using this information, health plans can adapt their strategies and move toward the shared vision of a more equitable healthcare system.
As we contemplate the future of healthcare, health equity must be placed at the forefront as a primary initiative of all healthcare organizations. By embedding cultural competence, embracing data-driven strategies, and empowering individuals, we can cultivate a healthcare system that embraces diversity and inclusivity. This endeavor is more than a moral obligation; it is a resounding call to action, an endeavor to construct a fairer, more equitable, and compassionate healthcare system that caters to all.
Contact us for our Health Equity Toolkit to get started!
Sources: