Achieving health equity in Appalachia involves addressing historical and ongoing challenges such as discrimination, poverty, limited healthcare access, and inadequate community health investments. The region has long been stigmatized, particularly affecting communities of color and exacerbating health disparities.
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Despite progress by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) in infrastructure and healthcare, persistent disparities reveal the need to tackle systemic racism and discrimination. Black Appalachians face significant health challenges due to economic and educational barriers.
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To promote health equity, we need targeted investments in healthcare access, economic opportunities, and essential services. A holistic approach must address poverty, safe housing, clean water, transportation, and crime, alongside providing high-quality healthcare services.
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Black Appalachians find hope in national reckoning on race | AP News
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