Over my 30 year career as a nurse, certified nurse-midwife, and public health professional, I have witnessed reductions in infant mortality spurred by policies that improved access to care and economic justice for the most vulnerable families. I was closely involved in advocating for changes in Medicaid, Kid Care, and social policies that would improve health outcomes and allow individuals the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their highest human potential.
However, I feel as though the progress that we fought so hard for is being ripped away and promoting access to care and the social determinants does not seem to be a priority for our legislators. Despite the immense prior success of Medicaid expansions, we are watching as eligibility and services are slashed. The public safety net is being devalued and diminished by legislators looking to close budget holes on the backs of hardworking families.
At the same time, federal health reform is on the horizon holding the promise of something better. The Affordable Care Act seeks to improve upon decades of advocacy efforts to increase access to care by making health care work for all of us. Good health is a key to basic human dignity.
My grandchildren suffer from severe allergies which means they are always at risk of a major health crisis and need consistent access to care. I am thankful that health reform has eliminated the possibility of them being discriminated against because of a so-called “pre-existing condition.”
I carry the narrative of justice as a public health person and a person of faith. Every person has the basic right to good health and opportunity to fulfill their purpose. Access to health care contributes to that and promoting care should be paramount for all public health professionals and people of good will. I hope that we as a people will have the courage and moral fortitude to move the arc of the universe toward justice in health care and the social determinants of health for all people.
Dr. Shirley Fleming is a grandmother, minister, and retired public health professional that believes the health care system should be driven by justice. Over her 30 year career, Ms. Fleming worked as a nurse, certified nurse-midwife, public health advocate, and the Chicago Department of Public Health First Deputy Commissioner.
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