Amig@s – let’s talk about Health equity.
Last Sunday, I came across this post on LinkedIn from Dr. Kay Judge.
It turns out.
She is well-known in healthcare management and a top LinkedIn voice.
Very impressive, right?
What grabbed my attention was the report she shared, highlighting a “massive opportunity.”
In my humble opinion.
As a healthcare professional, this might be something you want to pay close attention to.
Improving health equity could add $2.8 trillion to the U.S. GDP by 2040.
Yep, $2.8 trillion, that is huge.
Something you do not want to miss. Right?
But, please hold your horses. This is NOT about the money, and I’m sure you know this.
It is, in fact, about Improving health equity for millions, especially underserved communities.
Yet, let’s be honest; it’s a huge deal to ignore.
In other words.
The way I see it, this is another opportunity to make healthcare Hispanic-friendly.
So, today, let’s taco ‘bout this enchilada.
Amig@s – let’s talk about Health equity.
Last Sunday, I came across this post on LinkedIn from Dr. Kay Judge.
It turns out.
She is well-known in healthcare management and a top LinkedIn voice.
Very impressive, right?
What grabbed my attention was the report she shared, highlighting a “massive opportunity.”
In my humble opinion.
As a healthcare professional, this might be something you want to pay close attention to.
Improving health equity could add $2.8 trillion to the U.S. GDP by 2040.
Yep, $2.8 trillion, that is huge.
Something you do not want to miss. Right?
But, please hold your horses.
This is NOT about the money, and I’m sure you know this.
It is, in fact, about Improving health equity for millions, especially underserved communities.
Yet, let’s be honest; it’s a huge deal to ignore.
In other words.
The way I see it, this is another opportunity to make healthcare Hispanic-friendly.
So, today, let’s taco ‘bout this enchilada.
Three Insights 🌶️
I. Equity is Not a Side Dish
Let’s be clear about something.
Health equity is NOT a “nice to have” feature; it’s the bedrock of a healthier, wealthier nation.
Right now, as you read this.
Millions, especially Hispanic communities, face barriers when it comes to receiving quality healthcare.
In a more direct way.
We have a healthcare system NOT designed with everyone in mind.
Now, this is NOT a problem for certain groups, as we all think. It is something that affects everyone, including you and me.
When whole communities do not receive the healthcare needed.
They become underserved, and the ripple effects reach far beyond those individual patients.
Thus, systems need a massive shake-up, and it is time we all recognize that.
Health equity should be at the center of every conversation, NOT an afterthought recommendation.
II. The $2.8 Trillion Potential
Imagine your healthcare organization working on closing health equity gaps.
Not just talking about it.
We could add a whopping $2.8 trillion to the U.S. economy by 2040. I mean, this is not a small win; it’s a game-changing potential fact.
Think about this.
Like simmering the salsa for a plate of delicious tacos.
If we keep ignoring the gaps, we let all that potential sit there, unserved.
And the longer we wait to address these inequities, the more we lose.
Not only financially but even worse, patient care, trust, and the well-being of my community.
Now, the reality of this situation.
It is the fact that this is NOT about the numbers, and it’s definitely not someone else’s responsibility.
It’s in our hands, and we all working in healthcare have a role to play here.
I’m serious.
So, if you are a software engineer or the VP of customer success for a healthcare organization.
This is your responsibility as well. You should take this seriously and take action with your team.
Here is why.
We are not just helping a few individuals or checking a box here and there.
This is actually needed.
Meaningful improvements for millions who’ve been without care for far too long.
And as mentioned above, the ripple effect is huge.
So, when we start closing these equity gaps, the impact goes beyond better health outcomes.
This process builds trust between patients and providers. Creating healthier communities and, yes, strengthening the economy at the same time.
In short.
The recipe for success is in front of us, and we are the ones who can bring it to life if we work together.
Another great part.
We can bring positive change to those in need while we simmer the salsa for a better economy in the background.
III. Consistency is Key
Here is one simple fact, people tend to forget.
As the title suggests, consistency is the key to everything. And it is the same when it comes to achieving health equity.
This is NOT something that happens overnight.
It is something we all have to continue cooking, as it takes time and patience to get it right.
In other words, it requires simple, consistent effort.
Like the GUMBO mentioned here, Hispanic Heritage Month should be a year-long enchilada.
Also, read this from the CDC about Health Equity Intervention and Action Principles.
Now, please note.
The key here is to focus on taking steady, ongoing actions.
Ensuring that culturally competent care becomes the norm, not the exception.
Of course, this means actually addressing things such as social determinants of health.
Like income, education, and access to simple healthcare resources that millions of Hispanics need.
Lastly, here is one thing to never forget.
This is not about a quick fix or simply bringing a band-aid solution.
The consistency I’m referring to here. It is more about long-term change, bringing sustainable improvement to my community.
And like any good recipe,
You can NOT just stir the pot once and walk away. We have to keep checking in, adjusting our approach, and making sure we are on track.
Because, in the end.
It’s not just about progress; it’s about maintaining that momentum for the long haul.
Insights
I. Equity is Not a Side Dish
Let’s be clear about something.
Health equity is NOT a “nice to have” feature; it’s the bedrock of a healthier, wealthier nation.
Right now, as you read this.
Millions, especially Hispanic communities, face barriers when it comes to receiving quality healthcare.
In a more direct way.
We have a healthcare system NOT designed with everyone in mind.
Now, this is NOT a problem for certain groups, as we all think. It is something that affects everyone, including you and me.
When whole communities do not receive the healthcare needed.
They become underserved, and the ripple effects reach far beyond those individual patients.
Thus, systems need a massive shake-up, and it is time we all recognize that.
Health equity should be at the center of every conversation.
NOT an afterthought recommendation.
II. The $2.8 Trillion Potential
Imagine your healthcare organization working on closing health equity gaps.
Not just talking about it.
We could add a whopping $2.8 trillion to the U.S. economy by 2040.
I mean, this is not a small win; it’s a game-changing potential fact.
Think about this.
Like simmering the salsa for a plate of delicious tacos.
If we keep ignoring the gaps, we let all that potential sit there, unserved.
And the longer we wait to address these inequities, the more we lose.
Not only financially.
But even worse, patient care, trust, and the well-being of my community.
Now, the reality of this situation.
It is the fact that this is NOT about the numbers, and it’s definitely not someone else’s responsibility.
It’s in our hands, and we all working in healthcare have a role to play here.
I’m serious.
So, if you are a software engineer or the VP of customer success for a healthcare organization.
This is your responsibility as well.
You should take this seriously and take action with your team.
Here is why.
We are not just helping a few individuals or checking a box here and there.
This is actually needed.
Meaningful improvements for millions who’ve been without care for far too long.
And as mentioned above, the ripple effect is huge.
So, when we start closing these equity gaps.
The impact goes beyond better health outcomes.
This process builds trust between patients and providers. Creating healthier communities and, yes, strengthening the economy at the same time.
In short.
The recipe for success is in front of us, and we are the ones who can bring it to life if we work together.
Another great part.
We can bring positive change to those in need while we simmer the salsa for a better economy in the background.
III. Consistency is Key
Here is one simple fact, people tend to forget.
As the title suggests, consistency is the key to everything. And it is the same when it comes to achieving health equity.
This is NOT something that happens overnight.
It is something we all have to continue cooking, as it takes time and patience to get it right.
In other words, it requires simple, consistent effort.
Like the GUMBO mentioned here, Hispanic Heritage Month should be a year-long enchilada.
Also, read this from the CDC about Health Equity Intervention and Action Principles.
Now, please note.
The key here is to focus on taking steady, ongoing actions.
Ensuring that culturally competent care becomes the norm, not the exception.
Of course, this means actually addressing things such as social determinants of health.
Like income, education, and access to simple healthcare resources that millions of Hispanics need.
Lastly, here is one thing to never forget.
This is not about a quick fix or simply bringing a band-aid solution.
The consistency I’m referring to here.
It is more about long-term change, bringing sustainable improvement to my community.
And like any good recipe,
You can NOT just stir the pot once and walk away. We have to keep checking in, adjusting our approach, and making sure we are on track.
Because, in the end.
It’s not just about progress; it’s about maintaining that momentum for the long haul.
Two Actionable Steps 🌮
I. Engage with Your Community
Here is a great point that cannot be ignored.
Improving health equity starts with listening to the people you serve.
Do NOT assume you know what your community needs; ask them.
You can host community forums, surveys, or even informal meet and greet events.
Which can provide invaluable insights into the specific challenges experienced in healthcare.
The good thing about this. You will know exactly what people are craving for.
Thus, by engaging with your community. You will learn about all the most common barriers they face.
This may include a lack of services, cultural misunderstandings, or even language barriers.
Once you gather this feedback, use it to shape all your services.
Even creating other programs that are way more culturally and linguistically appropriate.
In summary.
Effective healthcare is a two way street, so open the dialogue and keep it going. The more people you get involved with, the more trust you will build.
Simple as that.
II. Audit and Address Inequities
The first thing to do here is to take a step back and take a 365 look around your untired operation.
Test how your organization is performing on the matter of health equity, and follow up with these two questions.
If the answer is NOT.
Well, it’s time to get clear on this and get to work by running a quick audit of all current practices.
Make sure that you do not complicate yourself.
This is simple and easy.
Look at the basics, following up with the following.
Are you providing equal access to care for all patients?
This includes things like access to language barriers, as well as resource availability.
Here is a good example.
Do you have bilingual staff or interpreters to serve patients who do NOT speak English?
Are there financial resources for patients who cannot afford the care needed?
See, this is simple, and it is nothing out of this world.
I’m sure, as you dig deeper, you might find some gaps you were unaware of.
Yet, whether it’s certain communities left behind or problems with culturally competent care.
These gaps might seem small.
But they have a huge impact on the health outcomes of my community, Hispanics.
The good thing.
Once you’ve identified all these gaps, the next step is to develop a plan to take action.
Whatever solution you are taking, make sure it’s realistic and sustainable.
But please do NOT stop there.
Learning how to make the perfect burrito takes time and adjustments.
So, you will need to track your progress often.
Oh, and before we jump to the other point.
Remember.
This is NOT a one time fix; it’s an ongoing effort. The more you commit to it.
The closer you get to closing equity gaps and providing better care for everyone.
Actionable Steps
I. Engage with Your Community
Here is a great point that cannot be ignored.
Improving health equity starts with listening to the people you serve.
Do NOT assume you know what your community needs; ask them.
You can host community forums, surveys, or even informal meet and greet events.
Which can provide invaluable insights into the specific challenges experienced in healthcare.
The good thing about this. You will know exactly what people are craving for.
Thus, by engaging with your community.
You will learn about all the most common barriers they face.
This may include a lack of services, cultural misunderstandings, or even language barriers.
Once you gather this feedback, use it to shape all your services.
Even creating other programs that are way more culturally and linguistically appropriate.
In summary.
Effective healthcare is a two way street, so open the dialogue and keep it going. The more people you get involved with, the more trust you will build.
Simple as that.
II. Audit and Address Inequities
The first thing to do here is to take a step back.
Take a 365 look around your untired operation.
Test how your organization is performing on the matter of health equity, and follow up with these two questions.
If the answer is NOT.
Well, it’s time to get clear on this and get to work by running a quick audit of all current practices.
Make sure that you do not complicate yourself.
This is simple and easy.
Look at the basics, following up with the following.
Are you providing equal access to care for all patients?
This includes things like access to language barriers, as well as resource availability.
Here is a good example.
Do you have bilingual staff or interpreters to serve patients who do NOT speak English?
Are there financial resources for patients who cannot afford the care needed?
See, this is simple, and it is nothing out of this world.
I’m sure, as you dig deeper, you might find some gaps you were unaware of.
Yet, whether it’s certain communities left behind or problems with culturally competent care.
These gaps might seem small.
But they have a huge impact on the health outcomes of my community, Hispanics.
The good thing.
Once you’ve identified all these gaps, the next step is to develop a plan to take action.
Whatever solution you are taking, make sure it’s realistic and sustainable.
But please do NOT stop there.
Learning how to make the perfect burrito takes time and adjustments.
So, you will need to track your progress often.
Oh, and before we jump to the other point.
Remember.
This is NOT a one time fix; it’s an ongoing effort.
The more you commit to it.
The closer you get to closing equity gaps and providing better care for everyone.
One Piece of Advice 💃
I. Be Intentional with Your Strategy
I repeat the same thing all the time.
Consider inclusion like growing a garden; it takes time, care, and consistent effort.
You can NOT just plant the seeds and walk away, expecting everything to thrive.
So, I will say it again.
Be intentional with your strategy on all your health equity efforts.
This is NOT a one time project but an ongoing process that requires nurturing and attention.
Each action you take.
Whether improving access, providing competent care, or addressing inequities.
This will help build a stronger foundation for the future. So, make all the necessary adjustments and watch the results flourish over time.
Piece of Advice
I. Be Intentional with Your Strategy
I repeat the same thing all the time.
Consider inclusion like growing a garden; it takes time, care, and consistent effort.
You can NOT just plant the seeds and walk away, expecting everything to thrive.
So, I will say it again.
Be intentional with your strategy on all your health equity efforts.
This is NOT a one time project but an ongoing process that requires nurturing and attention.
Each action you take.
Whether improving access, providing competent care, or addressing inequities.
This will help build a stronger foundation for the future.
So, make all the necessary adjustments and watch the results flourish over time.
Call To Action 🤝🏽
After all this.
Here is a question for you.
- What’s one small step you can take today to help move the needle on health equity in your organization?
It does NOT have to be something huge.
You could even start a conversation with your team about your current practices or consider how to make healthcare more inclusive.
I’d love to hear what’s on your mind. Reply to this email, and let’s keep this important conversation going.
Your input matters.
Hasta la vista, amigos ✌🏽
Call to Action
After all this.
Here is a question for you.
- What’s one small step you can take today to help move the needle on health equity in your organization?
It does NOT have to be something huge.
You could even start a conversation with your team about your current practices or consider how to make healthcare more inclusive.
I’d love to hear what’s on your mind.
Reply to this email, and let’s keep this important conversation going.
Your input matters.
Hasta la vista, amigos ✌🏽
Let’s taco ‘bout this edition
Let’s taco ‘bout this edition
