GOAL 2: PROMOTE CHANGES IN THE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY SYSTEM THAT IMPROVE INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION, INFORMED DECISION-MAKING, AND ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES.
Numerous physicians, dentists, optometrists and other medical practitioners and residents represented marginalized Communities and collected data during the June 2-3, 2023 “The State of Minority Health Post COVID-19” Symposium convening medical field personnel, particularly persons of color, health care advocates and members of marginalized communities to discuss and develop approaches to address health literacy within vulnerable communities for future use. This symposium not only provided lessons learned from medical providers during the onset and process of a global pandemic, but also afforded healthcare practitioners to also share transparent testimonies of their endurance. According to several physicians and clinicians, they were isolated from their families to protect them from exposure to or the spread of COVID. Both East Baton Rouge residents and physicians discussed “distrust” among persons of color with it comes to accessing and receiving healthcare. Patient Rights were discussed, as well as how to improve communications with service providers by making informed decisions about one’s personal care. Through the engagement of physicians and the exchange from patients and residents, the BRAHL team fills this goal was met as communication regarding patient concerns was charged with individuals representing the health delivery system. And, healthcare providers also heard from patients so that considerations to access healthcare as well as suggested to enable both parties to make informed decisions were shared. Additionally, during April 2023 and February 2024, the BRAHL team sponsored “free” community clinics in collaboration with Impact Nurse Consulting as a means to provide East Baton Rouge residents “free” access to dental, vision and medical services. More than 35 dentists and dental hygienists provided free dental exams, cleanings, fillings and extractions as a community service due to BRAHL funding made possible through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health. Also, approximately five (5) internal medicine physicians and nurses, four (4) Optometrists and others participated in this “free” healthcare event that operated from 6 am to 6 pm. Taking a free clinic “to the people” with no questions asked about current insurance was a factor in peak attendance. This healthcare strategy was an effective intervention or strategy in advancing health literacy and education around prioritizing self-care using nontraditional methods. Translators were on hand as well as assistive devices or software to enhance communication between non-English speaking patients. Various on-site nonprofits that provided various community supports and services were also on hand while persons waited to be treated.
BRAHL ANNUAL REPORT 2024 7
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