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Garlin Gilchrist
Lieutenant Governor | MI

Michigan Creates Racial Disparities Task Force

Idea Category: Equity & Opportunity

Problem

In 2020 Michigan health experts noticed African Americans were being infected and dying by the Coronavirus at an alarmingly higher rate than the overall population. This health disparity is not limited to the Covid-19 pandemic, but has been ongoing for decades.

Solution

Responding to the historic health disparities in African American communities highlighted by the pandemic, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist created the Michigan Coronavirus Racial Disparities Task Force. The task force identified several issues leading to poor health outcomes including, the limited health insurance options, few accessible primary care physicians, and the lack of access to reliable broadband which leaving Michiganders with no access to telemedicine services. The task force and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services have partnered to create and release recommendations to address the inequalities facing Black Michiganders. A budget proposal of $20 million was approved to help reduce the disparity for the present and future health crises. These funds will provide and maintain testing infrastructure in marginalized communities, promote primary care connection to decrease the amount of uninsured and underinsured individuals, and also develop equity workshops.