Impact of COVID on Racial & Ethnic Minorities

Like I’ve mentioned in a few of my previous posts, this pandemic has brought on a lot of changes for everyone– but there is variation in how COVID-19 has impacted different groups of people. The experience of racial and ethnic minorities during this pandemic has been very different from other groups and is reflective of health outcomes that often exist for minorities in the U.S.

COVID-19

In New York City, the death rates for Black/African American individuals is much higher due to the virus, than it is for other racial/ethnic groups (1). The chart below shows the disproportionality of the effects of COVID on the population of African American individuals in a few states. 

Compared to the total state population, the majority of patients affected by COVID are African American (2).

These disparities exist not only during this pandemic, but in healthcare in general:

Reasons for the Disparity

People who belong to racial or ethnic minority groups experience the health care system differently than others– many of the existing disparities in society lead to poorer health outcomes, as well as greater vulnerability to viruses and other illnesses. Many minority groups live in heavily populated areas or live in households with multiple generations, where social distancing might not be possible (1). Many work hourly, so health benefits are not part of the package and health services become difficult to access (2). There is also a much higher population of racial and ethnic minorities in jails, prisons, etc. which are again, places that increase the risk of spread of viruses and other illnesses (1).

Also, because of the social distancing measures that have to be taken because of the pandemic, there has been a decrease in quality of care for patients who don’t speak English (4). Before, interpreters/translators could be present in person during a patient’s visit, which makes it much easier to translate and understand the patient’s concerns and symptoms. Now, a lot of interpreters have to work over the phone and it’s possible that a lot of information is getting lost in translation because it’s just harder to have a conversation and understand each other that way.

While the pandemic has affected everyone in one way or another, it has not affected everyone equally. The social determinants of health that I talked about in my first blog, in addition to factors such as racism, geographic location, and poverty, play a large part in deciding how an individual is affected. Unfortunately, the same level and quality of healthcare are not available to every person. Moving towards a system that addresses these disparities and provides excellent health care to each patient will involve first resolving the inequalities that exist in health care delivery in general and access to healthier food, exercise, etc. Additionally, training healthcare providers to better understand cultural differences and barriers to care could improve health outcomes for minority groups (3).

39,457 thoughts on “Impact of COVID on Racial & Ethnic Minorities

  1. Create amazing comics with AI Comic Factory! Our AI-powered comic generator helps you bring your stories to life. Generate characters, plots, and dialogue with ease.

    Reply

  2. In today’s fastpaced digital age, Al Tools are becoming game changers for creativity and productivity. Whether inart creation, business marketing, ordaly tasks, these tools help us achieve our goals more eficiently, Discover howto leverage AI Tools to enhance your work eficiency and unlock endlesspossibilities for the future!

    Reply

  3. In this exhibition filed with historical reflection, we can see stories from diferent perspectives.As showcased by”AlG0.tools,” technology can help usgain a deeper understanding of complex histories and cultures.witninnovativecan exp ore ana anavze thepast,uncoverine newinsiants,cTOOHWAlearn more, visit AIGO.tools

    Reply

  4. In this exhibition filled with art and creativiy, have you ever thought about how to combine your investments withculture? Explore MEME Coin andexperience the future of digital currency. it’s not ust an investment opportunity;,it’s a chance to be part of a elobal community, Learn more now and jointhis exciting journey!

    Reply

  5. In today’s society, the fusion of art and commerce is increasingly evident.As MEME is Game demonstrates, ant isnotjust an expression but a means ofparticipation and interaction. Through this,the audience becomes not just abystander but a part ofthe creation,Let’s re-evaluate the vale of art andengage in this creative game!

    Reply

  6. 欢迎来到 爱体育!我们为您提供全面的在线体育博彩服务,覆盖足球、篮球、网球等多个热门赛事。平台安全可靠,实时动态赔率,用户友好的界面,以及丰厚的注册奖金和促销活动,为您带来无与伦比的体育竞猜体验。加入爱体育,享受每一场比赛的激情与乐趣!

    Reply

  7. I’m not certain where you’re getting your
    information, however great topic. I must spend some
    time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for excellent information I was on the lookout for this information for my mission.

    My blog post – брендовые мужские брюки

    Reply

  8. Looking for the Best thesis writing help? Our professional team is ready to guide you through every step of the process! Whether you need help structuring your thesis, conducting research, or polishing your final draft, we provide top-quality, customized assistance. Save time and reduce stress with expert support that guarantees academic excellence. 🎓📚

    Reply

  9. Today, I went to the beach with my kids. I found a sea shell and gave
    it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She put the shell to her ear and
    screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and
    it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is completely off topic but I had to tell someone!

    Here is my site … does sugar defender work

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *