Racial Disparities in Healthcare Persist Across the US: Report Findings

The Commonwealth Fund recently released a report highlighting the persistent racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare across the United States. The report evaluated each state on how well their healthcare systems serve different population groups, giving scores from 0 to 100.

Even in states known for their progressive healthcare systems, such as California, disparities exist. For example, California received a score of 45 for the care provided to Hispanic Americans, while White patients received a score of 87. This disparity was also seen in states like Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Connecticut.

The report found that premature deaths from preventable and treatable causes occur at a higher rate among Black and American Indian people compared to other groups. In some southwestern and Mountain states, premature death rates for Hispanics are higher than in other parts of the country.

To address these disparities, the report suggests four policy goals: ensuring affordable and equitable health insurance, improving primary care, reducing paperwork for patients and providers, and investing in social services. By tailoring interventions to address communities’ unique needs, states have the opportunity to create a more equitable health system.

The report, titled “Advancing Racial Equity in U.S. Health Care: The Commonwealth Fund 2024 State Health Disparities Report,” provides a comprehensive analysis of healthcare disparities in the U.S. and offers recommendations for creating a more equitable system.