Generic drugs aren’t the only aspect of the healthcare system that is in need of reform. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently gave $14 million to support programs designed to identify the healthcare treatments that work best for ethnic minorities, and at least one consulting firm is taking action.
“We recognize that poor health and lack of access to quality care among minority or low-income workers affects employer-sponsored health plans,” said Andy Hiles, Aon Consulting’s senior vice-president for large market growth and innovation.
“The disparity in health and medical care outcomes among employee populations is a real issue for many companies. It leads to increased medical, disability and workers’ compensation costs.”
Aon has done extensive research in this area, outlined in its Culturally Competent Heath Care report and is taking “systemic action to help clients close the health gap by addressing minority and low wage worker health care through a Culturally Competent Health Care initiative.”