MPOG Statement on Health Disparities

MPOG along with the other Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) Collaborative Quality Initiatives (CQIs) stand against racism and hate in all its forms. We acknowledge the impact of racial injustice and racism that must be addressed. Racism in any setting, form and structure – whether healthcare, law enforcement, or any other – is unacceptable. We are committed to the conversations and actions needed to bring about change and equity. We commit to review of our structures, policies and quality work through an anti-racist lens and welcome feedback as we collectively reflect, learn and address this critical societal issue and public health issue. As health care providers, we must lead in making a difference in the health care we provide and the quality we seek to improve across health systems. MPOG could be a powerful tool to shine light on health disparities in the perioperative space.

Over the past three months, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed health and health care disparities in black and other communities of color and other vulnerable populations. It laid bare the structures, systems, and policies that create social and economic conditions that lead to disparate access to healthcare, poor health outcomes, and lower life expectancy. CQIs are committed to using the CQI platform to assess and better understand all health care disparities. We will share information obtained by CQIs with the broader healthcare community in an effort to inform and consider future actions taken by healthcare entities to address these inequities and improve healthcare for all.

The elimination of health disparities will not be achieved without acknowledging the role racism and implicit bias has played in creating and perpetuating health and social inequalities. This includes inequitable access to quality health care services. Racism and the structures and policies which perpetuate and uphold it are antithetical to the oaths and moral responsibilities we accepted as healthcare professionals who have dedicated our lives to advance the health of all, especially the most vulnerable.

Support for the CQIs is provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network as part of the BCBSM Value Partnerships program. BCBSM’s Value Partnerships program provides clinical and executive support for all CQI programs. To learn more about Value Partnerships, visit www.valuepartnerships.com. Although Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and the CQIs work in partnership, the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by CQIs do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of BCBSM or any of its employees.