Breast Imaging and Health Equity: Bridging Gaps and Improving Outcomes (2024)-WEB09-2024-Breast-Imaging-and-Health-Equity-Webinar-Miles-Slides

WEB09-2024-Breast-Imaging-and-Health-Equity-Webinar-Miles-Slides

Pdf Summary

The document focuses on health equity in breast imaging, particularly addressing disparities in access, utilization, and outcomes among different sociodemographic groups. Randy C. Miles, MD, MPH, emphasizes the need for equitable healthcare access, especially in breast imaging services, to achieve the highest level of health for all, as outlined by Healthy People 2020. Health equity requires valuing everyone equally, addressing historical and contemporary injustices, and eliminating healthcare disparities.<br /><br />Key studies highlighted include the impact of healthcare-associated cost concerns and food insecurity on mammography screening. The data suggest that cost concerns and food insecurity significantly reduce the likelihood of breast cancer screening. Insurance status, education level, and marital status also impact screening rates.<br /><br />The document notes racial and ethnic disparities in breast cancer stage at presentation and the importance of safety net hospitals in providing care regardless of insurance status. Safety net hospitals, often underfunded, serve low-income, minority, and immigrant communities.<br /><br />Data from studies also reveal delays in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the importance of timely care. Implementing a same-day biopsy program in safety net settings reduced racial and insurance-related time disparities from biopsy recommendation to performance.<br /><br />Incorporating social determinants of health into care provision is suggested as a crucial strategy to improve breast cancer outcomes among vulnerable groups. Interventions like rideshare programs to reduce missed appointments and offering Saturday clinics increase service accessibility.<br /><br />Overall, the document underscores the importance of targeted, multidimensional interventions to enhance breast cancer care for vulnerable populations. It advocates allocating resources towards health equity, emphasizing that such efforts are not only ethically right but also cost-effective.

Keywords

health equity

breast imaging

disparities

sociodemographic groups

mammography screening

safety net hospitals

social determinants of health

vulnerable populations

healthcare access

racial and ethnic disparities