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  • Washington Highlights

    Ways and Means Democrats Release Framework to Achieve Health and Economic Equity

    Matthew Shick, Sr. Director, Gov't Relations & Regulatory Affairs
    Brett Roude, Legislative Analyst

    The House Ways and Means Committee Democrats released a report, Something Must Change: Inequities in U.S. Policy and Society, on Jan. 11 that highlights the committee's legislative priorities to help end racial health and economic disparities.

    Upon the release of the report, Chair Richard Neal (D-Mass.) said, "The framework we present here is Ways and Means Committee Democrats' plan to make our nation a more just and equitable place. Some actions we can pursue almost immediately. Other advancements may take longer to become law. But inaction is not an option. Complacency cannot be tolerated."

    Addressing racism in medicine, increasing access to care for marginalized groups, developing an appropriate and trusted health workforce, adapting accessible technologies and modernized infrastructure, and supporting state and local governments to maximize health resources are among the committee's priorities.

    The report notes, "Resources available within homes and communities across America vary vastly, and these resources greatly influence choices that have a significant impact on health status and outcomes. Consider that the U.S. boasts some of the world's most advanced and innovative hospitals, research institutions, medical schools, and medical therapies; yet, not everyone in the nation has an equal opportunity to benefit from proximity to these advances."

    The AAMC previously released the AAMC Framework for Addressing and Eliminating Racism at the AAMC, in Academic Medicine, and Beyond, which highlights ways academic medical centers can help address the inequities facing underrepresented groups.