BUS FPX 4128 Assessment 4 Health Disparities Community Evaluation and Recommendation Report

BUS FPX 4128 Assessment 4 Health Disparities Community Evaluation and Recommendation Report

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Capella University

BUS-FPX4128 Cultural Competence in Health Care

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Date

Health Disparities in Bexar County: A Comprehensive Evaluation and Recommendations for Improvement

Introduction

Christus Healthcare, a prominent organization dedicated to offering direct patient care, focuses its efforts on addressing health disparities within Bexar County. Rooted in its mission to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, Christus is committed to bridging the gaps in healthcare for the local population. This report assesses health disparities using demographic data, evaluates community-driven healthcare initiatives, identifies gaps in service delivery, and offers recommendations to improve culturally competent care. It also proposes potential partnerships that can enhance healthcare equity in the region.

Health Disparities in Bexar County: A Demographic Overview

Health disparities in Bexar County are heavily influenced by various demographic factors, including employment, education, income, and mortality rates. For example, from 2017 to 2018, Bexar County saw a 2.45% increase in employment, with Hispanic or Latino individuals making up the majority of recent graduates (Bexar County, TX | Data USA, n.d.). However, the average household income declined slightly during the same period, indicating economic challenges for many residents (Bexar County, TX | Data USA, n.d.). Additionally, gender disparities are evident in mortality rates, with men experiencing significantly higher death rates than women (Freeman, 2019). These disparities point to the broader social determinants of health that shape the community’s healthcare needs.

BUS FPX 4128 Assessment 4 Health Disparities Community Evaluation and Recommendation Report

Efforts to Address Healthcare Disparities in Bexar County

Addressing health disparities requires collaborative efforts among federal, state, and local organizations. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has introduced action plans to reduce racial and ethnic health inequalities across the nation (Artiga, Orgera, & Pham, 2018). At the local level, Metro Health, a community organization based in San Antonio, has been instrumental in improving public health outcomes through initiatives that target high-risk populations and marginalized communities (Strategic Plan, 2017). These efforts are essential in the fight against health disparities, as they address the root causes of poor health outcomes and promote better access to quality healthcare.

Identifying Gaps in Healthcare Services

Despite various initiatives, significant gaps in healthcare access persist, particularly between wealthier and disadvantaged neighborhoods. Economic barriers such as the lack of insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs are major impediments to care for many residents (Strategic Plan, 2017). These disparities can be exacerbated by a shortage of healthcare professionals in underserved areas and limited access to medical facilities. Addressing these gaps will require expanding access to services, increasing community health programs, and reducing the financial barriers that prevent many from seeking necessary care.

Culturally Competent Care: A Key to Reducing Health Disparities

To effectively address health disparities, it is crucial to provide culturally competent care. Christus Health places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and cultural sensitivity within its healthcare delivery model. This involves providing staff with training on diversity and ensuring that services are tailored to the needs of the community’s diverse populations (CHRISTUS Health, n.d.). Culturally competent care fosters trust and improves patient satisfaction, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and reducing the likelihood of health disparities. Additionally, organizations that prioritize cultural competence are more likely to engage marginalized communities, empowering them to take control of their health.

Recommended Actions to Improve Health Outcomes

To tackle the disparities in healthcare, several strategic actions are recommended. First, increasing the diversity of the healthcare workforce can help ensure that providers are more representative of the communities they serve. Second, expanding interpreter services would support non-English-speaking populations, improving communication and care quality. Lastly, improving access to healthcare services, especially for low-income families, is essential to eliminate barriers to care (Frist, 2005). These initiatives aim to mitigate both systemic and individual challenges that contribute to health disparities.

Strategic Partnerships to Address Health Disparities

Collaboration between healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations is essential to address the underlying causes of health disparities. Partnerships with entities such as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services can leverage resources and expertise to create more effective healthcare solutions (Texas Health and Human Services, n.d.). These alliances can improve healthcare infrastructure, promote policy changes, and enhance public health campaigns that reach a broader audience.

Conclusion

Christus Health remains committed to improving the health outcomes of Bexar County residents by addressing healthcare disparities through strategic partnerships, culturally competent care, and ongoing advocacy. By continuing to focus on these key areas, the organization can ensure that all residents, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to quality healthcare. These efforts will not only improve the overall health of the community but also contribute to a more equitable healthcare system.

References

Artiga, S., Orgera, K., & Pham, O. (2018). Disparities in Health and Health Care: Five Key Questions and Answers. The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.

Bexar County, TX | Data USA. (n.d.). Datausa.Io.
CHRISTUS Health. (n.d.). About | CHRISTUS Health. www.Christushealth.Org.

Frist, W. H. (2005). Overcoming Disparities In U.S. Health Care. Health Affairs, 24(2), 445–451.

BUS FPX 4128 Assessment 4 Health Disparities Community Evaluation and Recommendation Report

Freeman, K. D. (2019). Mortality in Bexar County, 2017 Report.
Strategic Plan. (2017). Department of State Health Services.

Texas Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Agencies & Departments | Texas Health and Human Services. Hhs.Texas.Gov.