Health insurer Centene has created a task force to address healthcare disparities. They are not the first organization to do this but given Centene’s reach into covering healthcare for underserved populations, the group could have a significant impact. Other leading companies have studied and provided recommendations on disparities. Pfizer, in 2007, created DART, the disparities, access and restrictions team, dedicated to increasing access to medications based on efficacy, not cost, insurance or other factors. It will be interesting to see what programs and outcomes come from this initiative.
The group will study causes of disparities affecting vulnerable populations, many of which Centene has served for years, and more interestingly recommend solutions to close the gap – education, programs, outreach, local initiatives. In 2016, 16 states enacted bills designed to close health disparities.
The task force members are a cross section from healthcare and community organizations. How they interact with and engage other leaders and programs that have had success closing gaps at a local level will be important. Members of Centene’s task force are:
- Dr. Nelson Adams, MD Former President National Medical Association
- Dr. Reed Tuckson, MD Managing Director, Tuckson Health Connections and Former Executive Vice President, Medical Affairs United Healthcare
- Dr. Michael Brooks, MD CEO, Family Health Centers of Georgia
- Dr. Elena Rios, MD CEO, National Hispanic Medical Association
- Kelly Buckland, Executive Director, National Council of Independent Living Centers
- The. Hon. Rex Lee Jim, Former Vice President, Navajo Nation
- Cassandra Jennings, President and CEO, Greater Sacramento Urban League
- Dr. Aletha Maybank, MD American Medical Association Chief Health Equity Officer
- Marvin Lindsey, CEO of Community Behavioral Health Association
- Dr. Takeisha Davis, MD CEO, New Orleans East Hospital
Migrant Family Health Network 