Improving Access For Blacks To Hospice and Supportive Care

By Rachel Sherman, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC

Hospice of the Chesapeake

. https://www.hospicechesapeake.org/

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Improving Access For Blacks To Hospice and Supportive Care

There is a startling statistic reported by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in 2020. Of the 1.55 million Medicare beneficiaries who received hospice that year, only 8.2% of them were Black. It is one of many statistics that show a lack of health equity among the Black population in our nation.

The low numbers of Black people using hospice isn’t because they are healthier. In fact, they are more likely to have diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. For most, these health issues are not genetic. Many are fighting health issues because they are fighting food insecurities, poor educational opportunities, a lack of jobs, and more. Many can’t afford the medicines they need to manage their diseases or conditions. Others can’t get to the healthcare they need because it is too far from where they live.

Among hospice professionals, this is not a surprise. We know the numbers. That’s why we are doing something about it. One of the first barriers we addressed was making sure our staff reflects the communities we serve. We focus on the recruitment and retention of people who identify as Black. Hiring professionals who people of color can relate to means there is someone who might more acutely understand their fears and concerns. When a Black family meets me, a Black nurse practitioner, they see that they are represented in this organization. Trust and commonality are essential when you’re concerned about the impending loss of your loved one or advanced illness in yourself.

To build bridges in our communities, we have focused on nurturing relationships with people and organizations vital to Black families. We get boots on the ground in the community, hosting education sessions at senior centers, libraries, schools, religious centers and with lawmakers. I and many others on our team do a lot of talking at local churches and work to build relationships with their pastors and faith leaders. We recognize that in communities of color there is a strong tie to their religious leaders and this is an important part of understanding unique cultures.

Cultivating a culture of acceptance means paying attention to every detail. Ensuring your marketing material reflect the families that we serve. Striving to ensure your leadership is diverse. Always working to gain the community’s trust. Are we as diverse as we could be? Well, that’s something we’re working on. And I love that about our organization.