Minority health care in several southwest Georgia counties gets failing marks according to a new report. The 2008 Health Disparities Report (.pdf download) says that while racial and ethnic minorities make up about a third of Georgia's population, they are much more likely to have health problems.
The Office of Minority Health, which put out the report is working to equalize health care access for minority and non-minority populations in Georgia.
Kristal Ammons of the Department of Community Health says Muscogee County's grade was among the lowest statewide:
“...particularly in the overall report card -- they received a grade of 'F' for prenatal care and maternal health outcomes.”Representatives met with local officials in Columbus on Thursday to discuss ways of improving minority health care.
Ammons says a matrix of poor education, poverty and economic hardship are a big part of the problem, but adds that many other counties received higher ratings.
The group plans to distribute $1.5 million in improvement grants statewide. The funds will also cover other health issues including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.
The group plans to set up coalitions with local officials and health care providers in Fort Valley, Valdosta and Brunswick, among others statewide.
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