Texas has more severe racial and ethnic health disparities compared to other states in the Southwest, according to a new report from the Commonwealth Fund. Black and Hispanic Texans are at a higher risk of being uninsured, experiencing avoidable deaths, and lacking access to healthcare services compared to other racial groups. Sara Collins, a senior scholar at the Commonwealth Fund, attributes these disparities to a lack of health insurance coverage.
Collins emphasizes that providing universal access to health insurance is crucial in addressing many of these issues. She points out that states which have expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income adults have seen better health outcomes and fewer disparities compared to states that have not. Texas is among the 10 states that have yet to expand Medicaid. Collins highlights how cost remains a significant barrier to accessing healthcare, and having financial means to access the healthcare system can eliminate this obstacle.
Racism and discrimination within the healthcare system also play a significant role in perpetuating disparities among different racial groups. Patients of color often receive inferior care for conditions like heart disease, pregnancy complications, and pain management, leading to preventable deaths. Collins stresses the need for the health system to address issues of racism and unequal access to quality care in order to bridge the gaps in health outcomes and preventable mortality.
The report recommends that lawmakers and policymakers tackle these disparities by improving access to health insurance, promoting diversity in the healthcare workforce, and investing in social services that support long-term health management. Elena Rivera, KERA’s health reporter, can be contacted for tips or inquiries. KERA News relies on the support of its members
