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

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

Student Name

Capella University

BUS-FPX4128 Cultural Competence in Health Care

Prof. Name

Date

Health Disparities Community Evaluation and Recommendation Report

Introduction

Christus healthcare organization is committed to providing direct patient care for residents of Bexar County. In line with its revised mission statement, emphasizing extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, Christus aims to tackle existing health disparities within the Bexar County community (CHRISTUS Health, n.d.). This report delves into health disparities based on demographic data, community initiatives to address healthcare needs, gaps in healthcare provisions, the organization’s capacity to deliver culturally sensitive care, proposed actions, and potential collaborative ventures.

Health Disparities Based on Relevant Demographic Data

Health disparities rooted in demographic factors such as employment, education, income, and mortality rates significantly impact communities. For instance, between 2017 and 2018, the employment rate in Bexar County saw a 2.45% increase, with a majority of graduates being Hispanic or Latino (Bexar County, TX | Data USA, n.d.). Moreover, household income witnessed a slight decline in 2018 compared to the preceding year (Bexar County, TX | Data USA, n.d.). Gender disparities are evident in mortality rates, with men exhibiting higher mortality rates than women (Freeman, 2019).

Community Efforts to Address Health Care Needs

Addressing health disparities requires collaborative efforts among federal, state, and local entities. The Department of Health and Human Services, for instance, implements action plans aimed at eliminating racial and ethnic health disparities (Artiga, Orgera, & Pham, 2018). Similarly, community organizations like Metro Health in San Antonio tirelessly work towards enhancing public health outcomes (Strategic Plan, 2017).

Gaps in Health Care Services

Substantial gaps persist in healthcare access and outcomes, particularly between affluent and disadvantaged neighborhoods. Lack of insurance coverage and financial constraints pose formidable barriers to care for many residents (Strategic Plan, 2017). Initiatives to bridge these gaps include endeavors to enhance access to care and address social determinants of health.

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

Culturally Competent Care

Culturally competent healthcare plays a pivotal role in addressing disparities among diverse populations. Christus Health underscores the importance of diversity and provides training to facilitate inclusive care delivery (CHRISTUS Health, n.d.). Culturally competent organizations have the potential to enhance health outcomes and cultivate trust within communities (Frist, 2005).

Recommended Actions

Proposed actions to ameliorate health outcomes for populations grappling with disparities encompass augmenting workforce diversity, enhancing interpreter services, and facilitating improved access to care (Frist, 2005). These actions target both systemic obstacles and individual needs.

Recommended Potential Partnerships

Collaboration with entities such as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Texas Department of State Health Services can bolster endeavors to address health disparities (Texas Health and Human Services, n.d.). Such partnerships can leverage resources and expertise to enhance healthcare access and outcomes.

Conclusion

Christus Health remains steadfast in its commitment to catering to the diverse needs of the Bexar County community. By addressing health disparities through collaborative initiatives and culturally sensitive care, the organization aspires to enhance health outcomes for all residents. Sustained partnership and advocacy are imperative for fostering a healthier and more equitable community.

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.

Freeman, K. D. (2019). Mortality in Bexar County, 2017 Report.

Strategic Plan. (2017). Department of State Health Services.

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

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