Health equity means that everyone can attain their highest level of health regardless of
their background, social determinants, or circumstances. It recognizes that health
disparities exist and seeks to eliminate unfair and unjust differences in health outcomes.
Achieving health equity requires dismantling systemic barriers, promoting inclusive policies,
and ensuring equal access to quality healthcare and resources for all.
We are dedicated to promoting and advancing health equity for all residents of Rhode
Island. This page serves as a comprehensive resource hub to raise awareness, educate,
and provide tools to address health disparities and achieve equitable health outcomes in
our communities.
Our Commitment to Health Equity
The Rhode Island Department of Health is committed to addressing health disparities and
promoting health equity through our leading priorities. We strive to:
- Address the socioeconomic and environmental determinants of health.
- Eliminate health disparities and promote health equity.
- Ensure access to quality health services for all Rhode Islanders, including the state's vulnerable populations.
Resources
- Programs and Initiatives: Learn about our ongoing programs and initiatives designed
to address health disparities and promote health equity. From maternal and child
health to chronic disease prevention, we are actively working to close the gap in
health outcomes.
- Health Equity Zones (HEZ) - Rhode Island’s HEZ is collaborative initiative
aimed at reducing health disparities and promoting equal access to healthcare
resources and opportunities within specific geographic areas of the state.
- Refugee Health Promotion - The Rhode Island Refugee Program provides
essential support and health services to refugees and asylees, helping them
achieve self-sufficiency and integration into the community.
- Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) - The Rhode Island
Department of Health provides training, resources, and support to RIDOH staff
and Rhode Islanders to help them fulfill the CLAS Standards.
- Commission for Health Advocacy & Equity - The Rhode Island Commission for
Health Advocacy and Equity (CHAE) is a state commission established in 2011
to advise and advocate for the elimination of health outcomes among minority
populations through various initiatives and collaborations.
- Office of Minority Health - The Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities works to address health disparities and promote equitable health access for all minoirity populations within the state of Rhode Island
- Partnerships and Collaborations: Learn about our partnerships with local and national organizations, academic institutions, and community groups that share our commitment to health equity. These collaborations help us leverage collective expertise and resources to drive sustainable change.
- Data and Reporting: To monitor and improve surveillance of the socioeconomic and environmental factors that drive health inequities, RIDOH collaborated with community partners to form the Community Health Assessment Group to develop the state’s first set of statewide health equity measures. Fifteen measures covering 5 domains identify systems and policies that affect the ability of every Rhode Islander to live a healthy life and achieve their full potential.
Together, we can build a healthier and more equitable state for all Rhode Islanders. For inquiries or further assistance, please contact Michelle Wilson, michelle.wilson@health.ri.gov.
Rhode Island Department of Health