Opinion
Video
Collaborations and Inclusivity for Equitable DME Care
Amy Nguyen Howell, MD, MBA, delves into strategies for health care systems to ensure equitable access and treatments for marginalized individuals with diabetic macular edema.
This is a video synopsis/summary of an Insights involving Amy Nguyen Howell, MD, MBA.
Howell outlines strategies for health care systems and institutions to ensure equitable access for individuals from marginalized communities facing diabetic macular edema (DME). She emphasizes the importance of developing clinical investigators who represent the diversity of patients in clinical trials. Additionally, Howell advocates for increasing diversity in medical education to produce ophthalmologists who understand social determinants of health affecting DME diagnosis and treatment. She also highlights the need for wider availability of treatment options and medications like biosimilars for minority groups.
Addressing partnerships and collaborations, Howell underscores the significance of collective efforts involving health care stakeholders, community groups, and advocacy organizations. Inclusivity is vital, with patients and family caregivers actively participating in discussions to ensure diverse perspectives are heard.
Regarding culturally sensitive environments, Howell suggests health equity officers and health care providers adopt inclusive products and services. Using a health equity lens, employing person-first language, and considering preferred terms for population groups is crucial. Collaborating with communication and marketing teams, using culturally appropriate images, and being aware of unintentional blaming language contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for patients with DME.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC® editorial staff.
