One year ago, we asked hospitals and health systems to participate in an important effort – AHA’s Health Equity Roadmap.

We developed this innovative framework to support hospitals and health systems in their work to become organizations that are more equitable, and dismantle structural barriers to health and overall well-being. The Health Equity Roadmap provides a customizable path for every hospital or health system, large or small, no matter where they are located, how they are resourced, or what kind of patient population they serve, and meets them where they are in their own unique journey.

To date, more than 1,000 hospitals and health systems have started their Health Equity Roadmap journey by taking our Health Equity Transformation Assessment. The assessment identifies strengths and opportunities for improvement, including how to collaborate with the community to improve health outcomes, diversify governance boards, and provide resources to advance patient safety and create inclusive workplace policies and practices. We also provide action plans and resources from our Health Equity Action Library that hospitals can use as they move along the equity continuum.

We appreciate the hospitals and health systems that are already engaged in this effort, and we continue to work to increase participation and adoption.

We know that eliminating health disparities can improve patient engagement; lead to better health outcomes; decrease readmissions; and improve performance in value-based care. We also know that studies continue to show that health inequities can cost hundreds of billions of dollars in lost productivity and premature deaths.

Health equity is a strategic priority for the AHA and is embedded in our work as we continue efforts to achieve our vision of a just society of healthy communities, where all individuals reach their highest potential for health.

Through our Institute for Diversity and Health Equity, we’ll continue to share resources and strategies to mobilize the field. In May, those conversations will take center stage at our Accelerating Health Equity Conference. You can check out our agenda and register now!

It is never too late to increase your organization’s focus on health equity and start your own journey by using the AHA Health Equity Roadmap.

AHA Board Member Janice E. Nevin, M.D., president and chief executive officer of ChristianaCare in Delaware and a health equity champion, said, “The Health Equity Roadmap is a new resource in our toolbox. It implores health systems to begin the work of addressing health equity by looking in the mirror. Being honest about where they are allows for growth, development and transformation. I would encourage any health system that has not signed on yet to do so.”

We must all do our part and work together as we strive to create a health care system that is fairer, more just, and more accessible to all.

Related News Articles

Blog
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, to a family deeply rooted in roles of service — teachers, pastors and nurses — I developed an interest in leadership and helping…
Blog
My interest in health care started at an early age. I grew up in a rural Alabama town with minimal access to primary or obstetrical care. Family physicians…
Headline
Based on an AHA-led discussion with hospital leaders, this resource shares strategies to foster equitable practices in maternal care at the patient and…
Headline
AHA is now accepting applications through Nov. 17 for the 2024 Carolyn Boone Lewis Equity of Care Awards, which will recognize the efforts of three outstanding…
Headline
The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights Sept. 7 released a proposed rule intended to update and clarify requirements under…
Headline
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will select up to eight states to participate in a new voluntary all-payer model that aims to curb health…