"Personal Stories of Overcoming Health Disparities: Inspiration and Insight"

What are Health Disparities

Health disparities refer to differences in health and access to healthcare services between different groups. These differences are often influenced by social, economic, environmental, and structural factors. Health disparities are typically seen in racial and ethnic minorities, lower-income groups, rural populations, and other underserved communities.

Reproductive Health Struggles

Erica, a 40-year-old Black woman from Milwaukee, has faced reproductive health challenges since her teenage years, including prolonged cycles, miscarriages, and being considered high-risk for pregnancy.

Discrimination in Healthcare

Throughout her healthcare journey, Erica experienced dismissive and biased treatment, particularly from a white male OBGYN who ignored her concerns. Despite advocating for herself, she faced a traumatic surgery experience where her pain and requests were disregarded.

Racism as a Public Health Crisis

Milwaukee declared racism a public health crisis in 2019, acknowledging how systemic racism impacts health outcomes for Black communities, especially Black women, who suffer disproportionately from maternal mortality and inadequate care.

BOMB Doula Program

To address these disparities, Milwaukee launched the Birth Outcomes Made Better (BOMB) Doula Program to provide support to Black women during pregnancy and postpartum, aiming to improve maternal health and reduce infant mortality rates.

Conclusion

Erica’s story demonstrates the urgent need for reform in healthcare practices. Ensuring equitable, sensitive, and informed care for everyone without discrimination is not only a moral obligation but a necessary step toward eradicating health disparities.

https://city.milwaukee.gov/Health/News-and-Events/Blog/Navigating-the-Labyrinth-of-Healthcare-Disparities--A-Personal-Story-by-Deputy-Commissioner-Erica-Olivier