Jan 22, 2020
The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) recently held an event with Black community leaders in downtown Atlanta. They were joined by a panel of medical professionals and community leaders and the discussion centered on the disparities in health care for African Americas including the lack of access when it comes to cardiovascular-related issues. African American participation in cardiovascular-based clinicals was identified as a critical factor toward improved health.
The group at this workshop—both medical professionals and community leaders—agreed that access to healthcare information and clinical trials is key moving forward. Why? Well, for starters, Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist with Piedmont Healthcare, declared that their profession is not doing enough to secure approval for Blacks.
Morgan and others firmly believe that clinical research as a care option—access to clinical trials in community settings within African American districts in cities such as Atlanta, for example, can better ensure that Blacks receive the best medical care—that is, “maximal care.” She went on to declare, “Clinical trials, especially cardiology and oncology, that can potentially add precious years to your life go unaccessed by members of our community.”