Partnering to Address SDOH, Health Disparities

"We have seen the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color throughout the pandemic. It has illuminated the health inequities that already existed, from food insecurity, housing insecurity, behavioral health needs, all of those things, varying by race, ethnicity, income, and geography." — Creshell Nash, MD, Arkansas BCBS.

Creshelle Nash, MD, medical director for health equity and public programs at Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield, shares how the pandemic has given the national healthcare delivery system a vehicle to address social determinants of health and health disparities. Melanie Blackman reports.

Also this week, a new law in Texas grants automatic approval of medical orders for clinicians who have a track record of prior authorization approvals at a payer. Chris Cheney reports.

Must Reads

That's all for this week's Payers Newsletter.

We'll be back in your mailbox next Monday with more news and reporting on the business of health insurance and healthcare.

Check our website frequently throughout the week for updates. And, remember to sign up for our E-newsletters to keep you informed on the top industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.

If you've got news tips, thoughts, or suggestions, I'd love to hear from you at [email protected].

Stay safe!

John Commins
Senior Editor

@ComminsCom