Pandemic Superimposed on Epidemic: Covid-19 Disparities in Black Americans

Abstract: Health and healthcare disparities are variances in the health of a
population or the care rendered to a population. Disparities result in a
disproportionately higher prevalence of disease or lower standard of care
provided to the index group. Multiple theories exist regarding the genesis of this
disturbing finding. The COVID-19 pandemic has had the unfortunate effect of
amplifying health inequity in vulnerable populations. African Americans, who
make up approximately 12% of the US population are reportedly being
diagnosed with COVID-19 and dying at disproportionately higher rates. Viewed
holistically, multiple factors are contributing to the perfect storm: 1) Limited
availability of public testing, 2) A dramatic increase in low wage worker
unemployment/health insurance loss especially in the service sector of the
economy, 3) High rates of preexisting chronic disease states/reduced access to
early healthcare and 4) Individual provider and structural healthcare system
bias. Indeed, COVID-19 represents a pandemic superimposed on a historic
epidemic of racial health inequity and healthcare disparities. Therapeutic
solutions are not expected in the near term. Thus, identifying the genesis and
magnitude of COVID-19’s impact on African American communities is the
requisite first step toward crafting an immediate well designed response. The mid
and long term approach should incorporate population health based tactics
and strategies.