Introduction
Healthcare practitioners should provide adequate care to different members of the community. The targeted communities are affected by different health issues such as obesity, cancer, and diabetes (Ortega, Rodriguez, & Bustamante, 2015). Social and economic disparities in the communities influence the health outcomes of different clients. This exercise examines the issues affecting African Americans and Hispanics.
Commonalities and Differences
Commonalities
These groups have specific similarities. Latinos and African Americans are ethnically diverse. In American society, these groups face similar social and economic problems. The groups are usually classified as colored persons. The two ethnic groups embrace the ideas of communities and extended families (Mandal, Scott, Islam, & Mandal, 2013). These communities are characterized by unique cultural components, such as music, art, and cuisine (Ortega et al., 2015). It is agreeable that the two groups are marginalized and discriminated. This fact explains why people struggle with prejudice, unemployment, and lack of adequate health services.
Differences
It is agreeable that African Americans and Hispanics contribute a lot to America’s diversity. However, these communities are characterized by various differences. For instance, skin color is a major difference for these groups. These people also have diverse cultural backgrounds. They also portray unique identities, cultural values, and beliefs (Mandal et al., 2013). Their rituals, cuisines, and celebrations differ significantly.
Plan to Address the Needs of Each Community
African Americans
This community encounters a wide range of health problems. Many African Americans lack adequate resources and opportunities in their respective societies. Their communities are characterized by insecurity, joblessness, and discrimination. Family stressors include lack of income, crime, and single-parenthood (Mandal et al., 2013). The individuals also encounter various socioeconomic factors that impact families. For instance, members of the community lack proper education. They find it hard to engage in economic activities. Crime is a major challenge experienced by many African Americans.
A powerful healthcare strategy is needed to meet the needs of this community. The plan should embrace the use of powerful resources in the community. Medical facilities should design appropriate healthcare delivery models. I will collaborate with social workers and community members to form multidisciplinary teams. Such groups will empower people to deal with diabetes and cancer (Mandal et al., 2013). Different resources, such as healthcare facilities, non-governmental agencies, and YMCAs will be used to support the African American community. Health promotion campaigns should be implemented to support this community.
Latinos
The Hispanics encounter specific problems such as unemployment and lack of opportunities. Some families in the community have low annual incomes. Access to adequate health services affects the welfare of the community. Socioeconomic forces influence many Latino families. Single-headed households lack adequate resources. Terminal diseases disorient the lives of many Hispanics. Discrimination influences the welfare of many Latinos negatively (Ortega et al., 2015). These issues make it impossible for members of the community to realize their potentials.
A powerful campaign or plan is needed to address the needs of this community. The concept of cultural competence will guide me in identifying new resources and roles that can make a huge difference for the community. Modern informatics, medical institutions, social workers, and healthcare institutions should be considered to develop the most appropriate plan. Powerful campaigns should be implemented to address each of the challenges mentioned above. Community resources, such as recreational facilities, hospitals, and learning institutions should be used to promote the best health practices (Ortega et al., 2015). Multidisciplinary teams will be created to support more people with terminal diseases.
References
Ortega, A., Rodriguez, H., & Bustamante, V. (2015). Policy dilemmas in Latino health care and implementation of the Affordable Care Act. The Annual Review of Public Health, 36(1), 525-544.
Mandal, A., Scott, J., Islam, N., & Mandal, P. (2013). Factors affecting African-American health: Empowering the community with health literacy. Journal of Bioprocessing and Biotechniques, 3(1), 1-2.