This article explores how breaking down barriers and promoting community support can improve men’s healthcare outcomes, highlighting the importance of collaboration and destigmatization.
As a Black man who has faced challenges in achieving and maintaining good health, I know firsthand the critical need to remove barriers to care and increase access to healthcare services. Improving men’s health outcomes is a complex issue that requires an “it takes a village” approach involving healthcare providers, institutions, families, and community organizations. Here’s how we can make a difference:
Prioritizing Outreach and Education
Healthcare systems and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) must prioritize outreach and education to raise awareness about health issues and services available to men. Culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate healthcare services are essential to ensure that all men, regardless of background, feel understood and respected when seeking care.
Reducing Financial Barriers
Financial barriers are a significant obstacle for many men, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured. Health systems and FQHCs can offer sliding fee scales or other financial assistance programs to make care more affordable. Advocacy for policies that expand healthcare coverage and reduce out-of-pocket costs is also crucial.
Delivering Comprehensive Care
Men’s health encompasses more than just physical well-being. Mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and other supportive services are vital components of comprehensive care. A holistic approach ensures that men receive the necessary support to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Community-Based Support
Community-based organizations (CBOs) play a crucial role, especially for Black men who often face unique health challenges. CBOs can provide targeted support, including outreach, education, and services addressing social determinants of health. Advocacy for systemic changes to better meet the needs of men in their communities is also essential.
The Role of Families
Families are pivotal in supporting men’s health. Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, is vital. Families can also motivate men to seek medical care when needed, accompany them to appointments, and help manage chronic conditions by ensuring medication adherence and follow-up visits.
A Call to Action
Improving men’s health outcomes requires a united effort. As someone who has experienced the challenges of accessing quality healthcare, I urge healthcare providers, institutions, and families to collaborate in removing barriers and increasing access to services for men. By focusing on outreach, cultural sensitivity, financial support, comprehensive care, and addressing social determinants of health, we can improve men’s health outcomes and build a healthier, more equitable society.
Men’s health is a multifaceted issue that demands attention and action from all sectors of society. By working together, we can eliminate barriers to care and ensure that all men have the opportunity to achieve and maintain good health. This collaborative effort is not just beneficial for men but for the well-being of our entire community.
About Dr. Fredrick Echols, MD
Dr. Fredrick L. Echols, MD is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Population Health and Social Justice Consulting, LLC, an Obama Foundation Global Leader, sought-after public speaker, black men’s health advocate, and accomplished physician with over 15 years of experience in public health. He has worked extensively with public and private sectors to address complex health issues through evidence-informed approaches. Dr. Echols is a graduate of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Population Health Training in Place program and the ASTHO-Morehouse School of Medicine’s Diverse Executives Leading in Public Health program.
Passionate about health and justice, Dr . Echols’ notable roles include serving as Chief Executive Officer for Cure Violence Global, Health Commissioner for the City of St. Louis, and Director of Communicable Disease and Emergency Preparedness for the St. Louis County Department of Public Health. In these roles, he oversaw public health regulations, led COVID-19 response efforts, managed daily operations, and developed strategic partnerships. Dr. Echols also served as Chief of Communicable Diseases for the Illinois Department of Public Health and as a physician in the U.S. Navy. He continues to contribute to public health research and guides health organizations globally.
For more health tips follow Dr. Fredrick Echols @ Fredrick.Echols@gmail.com
Follow Dr. Echols on socials:
- Facebook: @FredrickEchols
- Instagram: @F.EcholsMD
- LinkedIn: @FredrickEcholsMD ( www.linkedin.com/in/fredrick-echols-m-d-5a2063225)
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