COLUMBIA, SC (WOLLO) — Black caregivers at Prisma Health gathered in front of Prisma Health Richland Hospital today to celebrate Black History Month.
The gathering was called “Black Men and Women in White Coats.” Black physicians, residents, and staff came together to encourage everyone in the community to prioritize their health.
Dr. Leona Broadwater, a third-year family medicine resident at the University of Southern California Family Medicine Center, said representatives encourage community members to take better care of their health.
“So it’s really important for the community and other health care providers to understand that we have a workforce that reflects the community and reflects the people we care for. Be confident. “I think it’s very reassuring for patients to build a trusting relationship with someone they can talk to,” says Dr. Broadwater.
Dr. Broadwater said the lack of trust in some parts of the Black community with non-Black health care providers may be due to historical reasons. But she said she and her fellow doctors want to help change people’s minds and inspire young Black children.
“I want little boys and little girls to see me. I have patients like that. When I walk in, I see the awe in their eyes. I introduce myself as the doctor who is treating them. And I can see that they feel very comfortable. I am a student who knows what you are going through. And to encourage the families here, we want to do our best to take care of you,” Dr. Broadwater said.
Dr. Rodney Leacock, a neurocritical care provider, agrees that increasing Black representation in the medical field will help resolve issues of community trust and address health disparities in access to care. Masu.
“Just like in any field, if you don’t express yourself well, you’re ignored. By not being present or being invisible, people don’t see you or know what your needs are. There’s a perception that we don’t recognize it, and it can be discouraging at times,” says Dr. Leacock.
Dr. Broadwater wants everyone to see a health care provider at least once a year.
“And I hope that we can welcome people and say that you are safe here,” Dr. Leacock says.
