Healthcare Disparities Among Black Women

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. It’s also an important moment to reflect on ongoing challenges, especially in healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect Black Americans, particularly Black women. These disparities stem from historical injustices, socioeconomic barriers, and biases in the healthcare system that continue to impact lives today.

Understanding the Healthcare Disparities

The statistics paint a stark picture of the health challenges faced by Black women.

• Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women, according to the CDC.
• Black Americans experience higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
• Despite similar rates of diagnosis, Black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women.

These disparities are not due to genetics alone but are influenced by systemic barriers, including lack of access to quality healthcare, economic inequality, and the lasting effects of medical racism.

Implicit Bias in Healthcare Disparities

One of the most troubling aspects of healthcare inequity is implicit bias, or unconscious prejudices that affect medical decisions. Studies show that Black patients are often undertreated for pain due to outdated and false beliefs about biological differences. This bias leads to mistrust in the healthcare system and can discourage Black women from seeking necessary care.

The Maternal Health Crisis

The maternal health crisis among Black women is particularly alarming. Issues such as limited access to prenatal care, dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers, and preexisting health conditions all contribute to the higher mortality rates. Heartbreaking stories like Shalon Irving's highlight the urgent need for systemic change. Organizations such as the Black Mamas Matter Alliance are fighting for better policies and increased awareness to protect Black mothers and their babies.

How We Can Address Healthcare Disparities

Creating meaningful change requires a collective effort. Together, we must:

• Educate healthcare providers. Medical professionals must receive training on implicit bias and culturally competent care to ensure fair treatment for all patients.
• Improve access to care. Expanding Medicaid, telehealth services, and community health programs can help Black Americans receive the care they need.
• Support community-based initiatives. Groups like the National Black Nurses Association and the Black Women’s Health Imperative work to bridge healthcare gaps through advocacy and education.
• Push for policy changes. Laws that increase funding for maternal health programs, hold healthcare providers accountable, and address social determinants of health are crucial in closing the healthcare gap.

A Call to Action

Black History Month is a reminder of the strength and perseverance of the Black community. It’s also a call to action to acknowledge and address the healthcare disparities that continue to exist. Spend your days advocating for policy reform, educating yourself and others on the history and impact of medical racism, and supporting organizations working to improve Black health outcomes. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every Black woman, or better yet, every Black American has access to safe, equitable, and compassionate healthcare.

For more resources and ways to get involved, visit:

• Black Mamas Matter Alliance
• National Black Nurses Association
• Black Women’s Health Imperative