Paramedic Services of Illinois, Inc.’s Post

As we step into Black History Month, it's crucial to reflect on and celebrate Black Americans' profound impact on various facets of society, particularly in the American healthcare system. This month is more than just a period of recognition; it's an opportunity to acknowledge Black Americans' resilience, innovation, and excellence throughout history. In healthcare, the contributions of Black professionals have been nothing short of revolutionary, often achieved in the face of systemic barriers and discrimination. Figures like Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, who performed the first successful open-heart surgery, and Dr. Patricia Bath, the inventor of the Laserphaco probe that revolutionized laser cataract surgery, have advanced medical science and paved the way for future generations of healthcare professionals. The legacy of nurse Mary Eliza Mahoney, America's first Black professional nurse, reminds us of the importance of representation and equality in healthcare. Her dedication to excellence and equality has inspired countless individuals to pursue and excel in nursing, changing countless lives in the process. It's also essential to recognize the role of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells (HeLa cells) have been instrumental in medical research, leading to significant breakthroughs in treating various diseases. Her story highlights the critical discussions around ethics, consent, and recognition in medical research. This month, commit to not only celebrating these monumental contributions but also to continuing the work of dismantling systemic barriers in healthcare and beyond. Let's honor the legacy of these trailblazers by fostering an inclusive, equitable, and diverse healthcare system that recognizes and elevates the contributions of all its members. #BlackHistoryMonth #HealthcareHeroes #DiversityInMedicine #InclusiveHealthcare

As we gear up to celebrate Black History Month, I am thrilled to introduce a unique and transformative workshop designed to redefine the way we approach this important period. I invite you to explore "The Soundtrack To The Black Experience" - a workshop curated not just to educate, but to heal and empower. Unlike traditional programs, this workshop is not about trauma dumping; it's about healing from collective wounds while celebrating the resilience and richness of the Black experience. Using my expertise and personal journey, I guide participants through impactful conversations, steering away from awkwardness by utilizing the universal language of music. Workshop Focuses: ✊🏾 Trauma Healing, Not Dumping: This session navigates the depths of history and current societal challenges, but it's grounded in healing and empowerment rather than dwelling on pain. ✊🏾 Music as a Catalyst: We harness the power of music to facilitate crucial conversations. It's the soundtrack that opens doors to understanding and connection. ✊🏾 Safe Space for Sharing: Creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to share their experiences, fostering growth and empathy. Let's celebrate the richness of Black history together. #blackhistory #blackexcellence #blackhistorymonth #collegestudents #highschoolstudents #growthroughwhatyougothrough #healingtrauma #community #toughconversations

During Black History Month, Alice Walker's quote takes on added significance as it reflects the historical and ongoing struggle for empowerment within the Black community. Throughout history, Black individuals and communities have faced systemic oppression, discrimination, and disenfranchisement. Despite these challenges, countless individuals have demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength in asserting their rights and fighting for equality. Alice Walker's quote reminds us of the importance of reframing narratives to center empowerment and agency. By acknowledging and celebrating the power within the Black community, we can inspire hope, resilience, and collective action towards a more just and equitable society. #BlackHistoryMonth is not only a time for reflection and celebration but also a call to action. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and the need to address systemic inequities that persist today. By amplifying voices, advocating for change, and supporting efforts towards equality, we can honor the legacy of past struggles and work towards a more inclusive future. #BlackHistory

MCI Diagnostics is celebrating Black History Month by Advancing Better Health Through Better Understanding for Black communities. Learn more about the importance of providing culturally appropriate healthcare services @minorityhealth. #BHM #BlackAmericans #AfricanAmericans #HealthEquity #BHMMINORITYHEALTH #BHMMCIDiagnostics

This Black History Month, we're highlighting influential Black voices and organizations who have made an impact on health equity and policy. In an October 2023 article, Shekinah A. Fashaw-Walters and coauthor propose a racism-conscious approach to policy making and health care practices that addresses racism and advances health care. Read the full article: https://hubs.la/Q02jWwCC0

Celebrating International Month of Black Women in the Arts... February we recognize the contributions of Black women in the areas of healing arts, culinary arts, fine arts, performing arts, and the literary arts. The arts are not only in paintings and/or on piano keys. We broaden the idea of art to consider literature, written works recognized to have important and permanent value. A writer is a literary artist. Literary art is the pursuit of studying and writing literature.

We hear a lot about the success of #apms and #valuebasedcare programs, yet what are the unintended consequences of such a blanket approach? Are there other ways to support resource constrained hospitals who care for vulnerable populations? Thanks to Health Affairs and Ashley N. Kyalwazi for bringing the issue of how Medicare Hospital VBP is having unintended consequences of penalizing resource constrained hospitals which care for a high volume of Black adults, causing some greater disparities in health outcomes. This is the exact opposite of the purpose of apms and VBPs. Please take a moment and read the article, the link is in the post.

🌟 Black History Month invites us to embrace not only the extraordinary achievements of notable Black figures but also to recognize and celebrate the everyday lives and contributions of Black individuals. It’s a time to reflect on the societal expectations placed on people of color—that to be acknowledged, one must be exceptional in some way. This month, let’s challenge that narrative and affirm that being oneself, in all aspects of life, is inherently valuable and worthy of celebration. Notable figures like Maya Angelou, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and James Baldwin have left indelible marks on our history and culture. However, the strength and essence of the Black community also lie in its teachers, nurses, artists, parents, and all those who contribute to the richness of our shared society by simply being themselves. As we engage in Black History Month, let’s commit to recognizing and valuing the diverse contributions of the Black community, not as exceptions but as integral parts of the tapestry of our collective history. It’s an opportunity to affirm that excellence comes in countless forms and that every individual, regardless of their background, enriches our community simply by being part of it. Here’s to a month of meaningful reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to inclusivity and understanding. #BlackHistoryMonth #CelebrateEveryStory #InclusiveExcellence #EverydayExcellence

This Black History Month, we're highlighting influential Black voices and organizations who have made an impact on health equity and policy. In an October 2023 Narrative Matters, Maranda C. Ward shares how structural racism gets codified in health care policy, specifically when it comes to dental care coverage. Read more: https://hubs.la/Q02mjlD80

Just read an insightful article about the challenges and solutions in increasing the number of Black physicians. As a Black male gastroenterologist, I see firsthand the importance of having doctors who reflect the communities we serve. Beyond addressing health disparities, more Black doctors enhance trust, empathy, and relatability in patient care across all backgrounds. Supporting diversity in medicine is crucial for building a more equitable and effective healthcare system. We can do better https://lnkd.in/e_uGVjbG