As an endocrinologist, internal medicine physician, and public health leader, I have witnessed firsthand the health disparities that affect Latino communities. The COVID-19 pandemic has only magnified these issues, especially with chronic diseases, emphasizing the pressing need for culturally competent health care to address these inequities.
In Arizona and across the nation, my efforts have been dedicated to educating and protecting our communities through media outreach, training community health workers, and conducting local outreach programs. These initiatives aim to tackle chronic health issues like diabetes and obesity, which disproportionately affect Latinos.
To truly bridge the gap in health disparities, we need more health care professionals who understand and reflect the communities they serve. Increasing the number of Latino health care workers is essential to fostering healthier communities and ensuring quality care for all. This can be achieved through targeted education and mentorship programs, increased funding for medical education, and policy changes that support diversity in the health care workforce.
For over three decades, the National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) has been at the forefront of championing health equity for Latino communities, advocating for vital protections. The need for physicians who not only resemble us and share our cultural background but also advocate for Hispanic health is crucial. It is more than just representation; it is about understanding the unique challenges faced by our communities and working tirelessly to address them.
This past May, my colleague Dr. Michael Galvez, a member of the NHMA, testified before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. He advocated for increased funding for pathway programs, community college transfer initiatives, holistic admissions, and the establishment of satellite medical school programs tailored for Latino students. Standing alongside Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders, Dr. Galvez highlighted the potential of these measures to enhance diversity and equity in health care. Additionally, we have many international medical graduates from Latin America who can help decrease the gap and increase cultural and linguistic competency with patients in areas with a high percentage of Latino population.
In my role, I have also prioritized enhancing communication with the Latino community through Spanish-language media. This involves appearing on Univision and Telemundo, both locally and nationally, to provide accurate health information and combat misinformation. By partnering with community organizations, we have distributed PPE, vaccines, and health education materials to underserved areas.
Let my work inspire a new generation to join this vital mission. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our communities. By raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and increasing representation in the medical field, we can ensure a healthier future for Latino communities across the nation.
Ricardo Correa is an endocrinologist.
