WASHINGTON, DC (May 23, 2018) – National Urban League President Marc H. Morial today applauded the Congressional Tri-Caucus on the introduction of the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2018 (HEAA). The bill, which is focused on eliminating racial and ethnic health disparities, was introduced by Rep. Barbara Lee on behalf of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, Congressional Black Caucus, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. The Senate companion bill will be introduced by Sen. Mazie K. Hirono.
“America is rapidly becoming a majority minority nation, yet communities of color continue to face substantial cultural, social, and economic barriers to obtaining quality health care and achieving equitable health outcomes,” said Morial. “HEAA is essential to addressing many of these barriers and ensuring that every American has access to the quality, affordable and culturally competent care they need.”
Chiefly, the Health Equity and Accountability Act of 2018 seeks to:
- Increase diversity among the ranks of health care professionals through direct support in higher education--growing interest and support in STEM education from middle school through high school year.
- Improve the cultural and linguistic competency of health professionals to meet the needs of communities of color and underserved communities.
- Invest in the community health worker model, which will increase the number health care professionals with community ties. Community health workers provide a range of supports that can include direct medical services, connecting communities with other medical professionals, helping individuals navigate the health care system, and providing health education to the public.
Link to statement here.
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