Baylor Health Care System's journey to provide equitable care

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Health Equity Research
• Community Health Initiatives

Background:

• Health disparities persist across diverse populations, necessitating evolving strategies beyond uniform care.
• Healthcare organizations face multifaceted challenges, including societal factors, in addressing health inequities.
• Baylor Health Care System has a longstanding commitment to tackling health disparities within its services and community.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail Baylor Health Care System's evolution in defining and pursuing health equity.
• To outline a framework for achieving health equity through improved access, care delivery, and patient outcomes.
• To encourage broader adoption of proactive strategies for reducing health disparities by sharing organizational experiences.

Main Methods:

• Evolved definition of health equity from uniform to tailored patient care.
• Implemented a three-dimensional framework: improving access, care delivery, and equitable outcomes.
• Developed diverse strategies including volunteerism, community service, and specialized clinics for underserved populations.

Main Results:

• Shifted focus to providing care tailored for equitable outcomes in diverse populations.
• Established initiatives addressing the needs of uninsured and underinsured patients.
• Proactively addressed health disparities within the organization and its surrounding community.

Conclusions:

• A proactive, tailored approach is crucial for advancing health equity.
• Healthcare systems can influence equitable outcomes through strategic initiatives.
• Sharing experiences can inspire and guide other providers in addressing health disparities.