The Healthcare Committee is dedicated to addressing the long-standing issue of healthcare inequity among racialized communities in the Region. Recognizing the disparities in access to quality healthcare, the committee strives to advocate for systemic changes, promote culturally sensitive care, and improve health outcomes for equity-seeking communities.

The committee's primary focus is on conducting community-based participatory research that centres the voices and priorities of equity seeking communities, analyzing data, and advocating for policy changes that address racial disparities in healthcare. By examining healthcare practices, policies, and the social determinants of health, the committee aims to identify and challenge the systemic barriers that contribute to inequities in healthcare access, treatment outcomes, and health outcomes for marginalized individuals.

A key objective of the Healthcare Committee is to promote culturally responsive and safe competent and anti-racist healthcare practices. This involves raising awareness among healthcare providers about the impacts of racism on health, addressing implicit biases, and encouraging culturally responsive care. By advocating for the integration of cultural humility and sensitivity into healthcare training and practice, the committee aims to improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for equity seeking communities.

Through their research, policy advocacy, and community engagement, the Healthcare Committee of the ABR-SD Collective aims to create a healthcare system that is free from racial bias, provides equitable access to quality care, and improves health outcomes for Black individuals and communities. Their work contributes to dismantling systemic barriers and promoting health equity, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being.

The Healthcare Committee is Co-Chaired by 

Gurpreet Malhotra, Executive Director of Indus Community Services & Dianne Fierheller, Assistant Scientist and Co-Lead of the Family and Child Health Initiative at Trillium Health Partners’ Institute for Better Health.