A national non-profit organization is focusing on preventative screenings covered under the Affordable Care Act. Families USA shines a light on health problems common among people of color with a series of infographics.
African Americans and Latinos are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than are non-Hispanic whites. These groups are also more likely to have complications from their diabetes, including death.
The organization is encouraging more people to be screened and catch any health risks early.
“The economic implications are enormous, because they’re a big difference between taking a pill every day and watching your diet versus being on dialysis and not being able to work,” says Sinsi Hernandez-Cancio, director of health equity at Families USA.
A survey released this month by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows nearly a third of Americans had trouble paying medical bills last year. African Americans and Latinos were slightly more likely to be in this group. The uninsured were the most likely.
“One accident or one unexpected condition can wipe out a family financially,” says Hernandez-Cancio.
Sunday is the last day to enroll in coverage under the New York State of Health marketplace.