Latino Caucus Examines Health Disparities in Underserved Communities
Citing recent reports suggesting significant health disparities in low-income communities, immigrants, and communities of color, the Legislative Tri-Caucus, comprised of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, Legislative Black Caucus, and Asian Pacific Islander Caucus, convened a briefing to address these disparities and discuss policy solutions. The Health Care Disparities Briefing, which took place on August 26th at the State Capitol, and included leading health advocates, academics, and industry representatives, drew significant community and media interest. In light of recent discussions on health care reform on the federal level, the Forum comes at a crucial time for underserved communities. Senator Cedillo, Chair of the Latino Caucus, expressed concerns about adequate access at the community level. “Providing culturally competent and affordable health care access to underserved communities is absolutely essential to achieving our goal of improved health outcomes and long term cost savings to the State.” With Latinos set to become a majority of the population in the state and equally represented in the national population participants noted that now more than ever communities of color must organize to create and lobby for a system that addresses their shared health challenges.
|
