Addressing Health Inequities in Minnesota Could Save More Than 700 Lives, $2.2 Billion Each Year

EAGAN, MINN. (April 17, 2018) – A new report by researchers at the University of Minnesota, with support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross), examines the impact of health inequities in our state and how those inequities result in lives and dollars lost each year. The report, titled “The Cost of Health Inequities in Minnesota,” explores the disproportionate prevalence of preventable disease and death within communities of color and the American Indian community. It highlights how addressing these health inequities is an opportunity to stem that tide, while also improving the economic vitality of the state.  

 

Minnesota is one of the top states in the nation for business, and currently there are more job openings than people looking for them. It will be essential to focus on attracting, retaining and developing the skills of younger generations, people of color and women – while also addressing health inequities. By doing so, productivity will improve, and lives and dollars will be saved.

 

The findings of this report also underscore how the presence or absence of certain social and economic factors help determine the health of a specific community, such as a livable income, positive community connections, safe and good housing, high quality education, and access to adequate and healthy food. By addressing these and other inequities, 766 lives in Minnesota could be saved each year, along with $2.26 billion. That economic burden on taxpayers, employers and governments equates to $407 for every adult and child in the state. Illustrated another way, $2.26 billion could also:

 

 

“Despite being one of the healthiest states overall, we know that Minnesota has some of the greatest inequities in the nation,” said Janelle Waldock, vice president of community health and health equity at Blue Cross. “This report highlights the impact of these inequities, including the significant health challenges that specific communities face. For instance, the report cites that American Indians suffer from diabetes at four times the rate of the general population. African Americans suffer from diabetes and kidney disease at one and a half times the rate of the general population. And Asian and Pacific Islanders suffer from diabetes, kidney disease and major cardiovascular disease at three times the rate of the general population. Much work remains to address these disparities, but by taking clear, decisive steps, we can advance health equity and experience a state with even more community and economic vitality.”

 

Research for the report was completed through a consulting agreement with the University of Minnesota’s Dr. Michele Allen, Director of Health Disparities Research, Dr. Samuel Myers, Roy Wilkins Center for Human Relations and Social Justice, and Dr. Susie Nanney, Director of Health Equity in Policy Initiative. Members of the Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council, an advisory council to the Minnesota Department of Human Services, was part of a community advisory group that provided community perspective and feedback on this study.

 

This initiative is part of an ongoing effort by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota to improve health and advance health equity within communities throughout Minnesota. Blue Cross believes that all people, regardless of race, income, ZIP code or other factors, should have opportunities to live the healthiest lives possible. Addressing health inequities in Minnesota has been a fundamental part of its work, and it will remain at the forefront of the organization’s efforts.