U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Abstract
Eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in health has become a focal point in the prevention of unnecessary illness, disability, premature death, and the promotion of quality years of life for all persons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has responded to disparities in health among racial and ethnic minority populations by launching Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH). The REACH program is a cornerstone of CDC's efforts to identify, reduce, and ultimately eliminate health disparities. CDC funds REACH communities to address key health areas in which minority groups traditionally experience serious inequities in health outcomes. REACH communities form coalitions that plan, implement, and evaluate strategies to focus on the needs of one or more groups that include African Americans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Asian Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and Pacific Islanders. Through REACHing Across the Divide: Finding Solutions to Health Disparities, we are pleased to share with you the successes and lessons learned in eliminating health disparities through the REACH program. The accomplishments highlighted in this book make a powerful case for the importance of working with communities to improve the health and well-being of their members. We now know that we can eliminate health disparities by engaging local leaders, building community partnerships, recognizing cultural influences, creating sustainable programs, leveraging resources, and empowering individuals and communities. The case studies in this book represent only a fraction of the many ways that REACH communities are overcoming barriers to good health. It is inspiring to imagine the possibilities if communities across the country were to put these strategies into practice. Our intent in sharing these innovative strategies and interventions is to assist others in their efforts to successfully close health gaps among racial and ethnic minority groups around the nation. It is a public health imperative that we help people, especially those experiencing the greatest disparities in health, obtain and maintain the highest level of health possible.Alarming facts, unacceptable conditions -- Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) -- Health disparities can be overcome -- Nationally demonstrated results -- Impressive community outcomes -- Why REACH works: keys to success -- Spreading the word: sharing principles that work Table of REACH communities (1999-2007) -- Map of REACH communities (1999-2007) -- Selected publications and presentations -- References"REACH, Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health"--Cover.Includes bibliographical references.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. REACHing Across the Divide: Finding Solutions to Health Disparities. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2007
