IBLC releases findings from the COVID-19 Indiana Health Disparities Task Force

INDIANAPOLIS – State Rep. Robin Shackleford (D-Indianapolis) and members of the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus (IBLC) today released the findings of their COVID-19 Indiana Health Disparities Task Force.

On April 14, the IBLC sent a letter to Governor Holcomb recommending the establishment of the Indiana Health Disparities Task Force. They then collaborated with the Interagency State Council on Black and Minority Health, the Indiana State Department of Health - Office of Minority Health, and the Indiana Minority Health Coalition to create the Task Force and present a corrective action plan to address health disparities and a course of action to address the prison population, jails, and juvenile detention centers in Indiana.

The Indiana Health Disparities Task Force was divided into eight committees dedicated to solving the health disparities evident in the COVID-19 pandemic. These committees were focused on: communication and education, documented and undocumented immigrants, frontline workers, incarcerated individuals and staff members, nursing home and long-term care facilities, individuals with preexisting conditions, and uninsured or underinsured individuals.

“I am proud of the dedication, diligence and persistence that each member of this Task Force put forth during the last three months,” Shackleford said. “It's no secret that Black Hoosiers are suffering at a higher rate during this pandemic and it is my sincere hope that the legislature and governor implement these recommendations swiftly. The longer we wait, the more people we will lose.”

To view the full Indiana Health Disparity Task Force report, click here.