February is Black History Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions and legacy of the Black community. While it is essential to uplift the voices of Black communities year-round, this month reminds us to reflect on the triumphs and struggles of those who have followed Ruth Janetta Temple, MD, in the fight for justice and equality.
Dr. Temple was one of the most prominent Black medical pioneers in California. She became the first Black woman to graduate from Loma Linda University School of Medicine in 1918, breaking barriers at a time when few women — especially Black women — were admitted to medical schools. She dedicated her career to improving health access for Black communities and establishing clinics that provided free care to these underserved populations.
Disparate health outcomes often arise from historical and systemic inequalities, as well as unequal access to health care. Hospitals alone cannot resolve health disparities; achieving health equity necessitates systemic reform and broad partnerships to enhance outcomes. Many hospitals and health systems within the Hospital Council service area are creating policies to improve care for Black individuals and other vulnerable populations.
The following are examples of this work:
- Alameda Health System offers the BElovedBIRTH Black Centering program, which provides culturally aligned prenatal care for Black mothers.
- The Solid Start Initiative at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital & Trauma Center addresses intergenerational trauma during pregnancy — a pivotal time for mental health. This initiative enhances support for Black patients by improving coordination with lead care managers for streamlined perinatal depression screenings and mental health care. Additionally, it connects patients with doulas to provide comprehensive support throughout their pregnancy journey.
- Sutter Health is improving heart failure treatment outcomes, with a significant focus on Black patients in the East Bay, by enrolling heart failure patients in a virtual pharmacy ambulatory care clinic to ensure optimal treatment. Sutter is also collaborating with Black patients to establish health equity quality indicators and gather data on encounters of anti-Black racism in health care.
- Kaiser Permanente provides resources tailored specifically for Black patients, such as “Plants Over Pills,” promoting a plant-based health approach. This initiative empowers patients to take charge of their health through dietary changes.
These are just a few examples of how our hospitals enhance access and care for groups that have faced historical and systemic challenges in accessing health services. At Hospital Council, our goal has always been, and will continue to be, striving for safe and reliable health care for all Californians.