Tackling Health Disparities: A Comprehensive Public Health Approach for Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Public Health Association has responded to the editorial titled “When 2 in 5 people report delaying health care because of costs, something is wrong” by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to improving public health outcomes. While reducing insurance costs, out-of-pocket expenses, and prescription drug costs is important, it is not enough to address the root causes of health disparities.

To achieve true health equity for all residents of Massachusetts, it is crucial to take a public health approach that addresses upstream factors and tackles the structural racism present in the health care system. This can be achieved through statewide benchmarks that measure progress, as outlined in the Strategic Plan to Advance Racial Equity released by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. This plan seeks to address systemic inequities faced by marginalized communities and improve health outcomes for all residents of Massachusetts.

In addition to affordability benchmarks, we urge lawmakers to consider passing two pieces of legislation that would further advance health equity: the Statewide Accelerated Public Health for Every Community Act and An Act to Advance Health Equity. The former would help local public health departments work with the health care system to address health disparities, while the latter prioritizes equity in state government, enhances data reporting on health equity, and improves access to quality health care.

By working collaboratively between the public health network and the health care sector, we can create a framework that recognizes the impact of social, economic, and structural factors on health. It is essential to understand and address these conditions in order to achieve true health equity for all residents of Massachusetts.