Let’s talk health. Sounds simple, but experts say that’s not always the case. So, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is hosting its 5th consecutive 'Let’s Talk Health Week'
The goal is to open the conversation about health and especially address the disparities that exist in Grand Rapids.
“The disparities that exist in terms of healthcare, in communities of color, especially in the black community and the Hispanic community, they’re pretty alarming.”
Cle Jackson is the senior community liason for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
He says several years ago they took a hard look at the disparities that existed in health care for communities of color. Disparities such as access and quality of health care. But one other concern stood out.
And that’s simply knowing about what’s available.
“There are many people who’ve lived in this community all their lives and didn’t know Baxter Community Center exists, didn’t know they had a medical and dental clinic and so through this week, we really tried to connect consumers to services.”
Research show African American and Latino communities are disproportionately affected by chronic illness such as heart disease and diabetes.
'Let’s Talk Health Week' brings local leaders, advocates, agencies and members of faith-based organizations together to talk about the disparities and empower individuals to take control of their health through lifestyle changes and preventive care.
Here’s Suzanne Miller Allen, BCBS director of community responsibility.
“We’re trying to show people that there are different ways to do things and encourage them to try that and to change their lifestyles and as we’ve done this different years and we do have success stories, of people who’ve participated in the faith and challenge walk and have lost weight.”
The 'Let’s Talk Health Week' starts today and runs through Saturday.
It includes free events like the faith in wellness challenge and cooking competitions for both men and children.
You can find more information at http://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/.
