Health Equity and Access Weekly Roundup: April 8, 2024

Addressing the Gap in Mental, Physical Health Care for Caregivers

Julia Cohen Sebastien, CEO of Grayce, spotlighted the overlooked perspective of caregivers at the Greater Philadelphia Business Coalition on Health 2024 Women’s Health Summit in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, emphasizing the significant impact caregiving has on women's health outcomes. Drawing from personal experiences, she discussed the physical and emotional toll of caregiving, resonating with audience members who shared similar struggles of balancing caregiving with work and personal life. The presentation underscored the economic implications of caregiving, including higher medical costs and reduced access to preventive care, while calling for workplace initiatives and greater societal awareness to support caregivers effectively.

The Evolution of Transgender Health Care

The first part of a series on LGBTQ+ health care, coinciding with Transgender Day of Visibility, delves into the history and current state of transgender health care in the US. It traces the establishment and subsequent closure of the first gender-affirming surgery clinic, policy changes regarding the classification of transgender identity, and pivotal moments like President Barack Obama's lifting of the military transgender ban. The article explores evolving health care policies, societal perceptions, and ongoing challenges faced by transgender individuals, including discrimination, limited access to care, and the necessity for health care providers to undergo more comprehensive education to meet the unique needs of transgender patients.

mHealth Intervention Serves as Potential Tool for PrEP Uptake in MSM

A recent study assessed the suitability of mobile health interventions, PrEPmate and DOT Diary, among Spanish-speaking men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women in the US to enhance pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake. Feedback showed positive responses, especially regarding medication reminders and tone/language appropriateness. The technical pilot demonstrated good usability and satisfaction scores, indicating high acceptability. While limitations such as a small sample size and short pilot duration were noted, further evaluation is needed to determine effectiveness in a larger cohort.

Study Shows Inequities in Postpartum Mental Health Care Access Across Racial, Ethnic Groups

A study in Health Affairs revealed racial and ethnic disparities in managing postpartum depressive symptoms among new mothers in the US. Despite similar diagnosis rates, marginalized communities are significantly less likely to access crucial mental health support. The study emphasizes systemic inequities and suggests policy interventions like universal mental health screening, ensuring access to care, reducing insurance coverage gaps, and providing culturally responsive clinician training to enhance postpartum depression care equity in the US.

Study: 1 in 6 US Patients With COPD Suffer From Cost-Related Medication Nonadherence

A study in BMC Public Health found that 1 in 6 US adults with COPD experienced cost-related medication nonadherence (CRN), linked to worsened symptoms and health care costs. Using data from 2013 to 2020, researchers identified factors like low income, female sex, lack of insurance, smoking, and asthma diagnosis associated with CRN. Patients under 65, especially those from low-income families, women, and uninsured individuals, were more prone to CRN. The study suggests health policy interventions focusing on reducing drug costs and improving COPD outcomes.