Hola!
This National Hispanic Heritage month, we spotlight Hispanics in home healthcare.
National Hispanic Heritage month was established by Congress in September of 1968, and celebrated September 15th — October 15th. As of today, Hispanics are the largest ethnic minority population in the U.S.
What does it mean to be Hispanic?
“It’s not a racial identity. Being Hispanic or Latino is a blend of cultural backgrounds and perspectives of the many peoples brought together by the Spanish empire, beginning in the 15th century.
What is authentic and enduring about Hispanic people is the openness to blending and consolidating diverse cultures.”
- Nicolás Kanellos, founder of Arte Público Press; professor at the University of Houston
Much of American culture today comes from a ubiquitous Hispanic culture, especially in sunbelt states.
Hispanic culture revolves around family, food, music, a strong work ethic, and a rich heritage.
Before the pandemic, Hispanics were the fastest-growing workforce in home healthcare, and personal care aides are projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations in the next 10 years.
That combination benefits home healthcare, however, many caregivers face workplace challenges such as language barriers and poverty.
Spanish is the first language of many immigrants, prioritizing multi-language skills training and education as cornerstones to the future of home healthcare’s workforce infrastructure.
Hispanics should be recognized as a solution to help solve home health’s caregiver-shortage crisis.
Additionally, 60% of Hispanic adults that receive healthcare experience language barriers, and have concerns regarding culture and religious beliefs.
More concerning is that Hispanics are 50% more likely to die from diabetes or liver disease due to a poor diet and lack of exercise.
Spanish-language education for patients regarding their diagnosis, medications, diet and exercise is imperative to improving disease processes.
A Yale study suggests that Medicare expansion would result in a substantial reduction in racial and ethnic health disparities for those in need of healthcare in minority communities.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
- Diversity: the understanding & acceptance of differences
- Equity: the process of promoting impartiality
- Inclusion: the practice of helping people feel a sense of belonging
Thanks for tuning in!
-Eric Mora
