Partnership between American College of Lifestyle Medicine and National Medical Association aims to tackle chronic disease disparities and promote diversity in medical field

The National Medical Association (NMA) has long been dedicated to addressing health issues affecting African Americans and other underserved populations. Recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health highlight the disparities in health outcomes between non-Hispanic Blacks and non-Hispanic whites. For example, non-Hispanic Blacks are twice as likely to die from diabetes and 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with the disease compared to their white counterparts.

In response to these alarming statistics, the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) launched the Health Equity Achieved through Lifestyle Medicine (HEAL) Initiative. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes for communities of color by addressing lifestyle-related chronic diseases through lifestyle medicine solutions and partnerships with organizations like the NMA.

Dr. Theresa Stone, a founding co-chair of ACLM’s HEAL Initiative and NMA member, emphasized the importance of resources provided by the NMA to help medical professionals stay informed about advances in medical practice. Through the partnership between ACLM and NMA, members now have access to tools and education to address lifestyle-related chronic diseases that disproportionately affect communities of color.

One key aspect of addressing these health disparities is the integration of lifestyle medicine into medical education and practice. Lifestyle medicine focuses on using lifestyle interventions to treat chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. By emphasizing factors like nutrition, physical activity, and stress management, lifestyle medicine offers a holistic approach to preventing and treating these conditions.

As part of their collaboration, NMA members can benefit from ACLM’s resources, including a CME/CE-accredited online course on Lifestyle Medicine and Food as Medicine Essentials. Additionally, eligible NMA members can apply for scholarships to receive training and certification in lifestyle medicine, further expanding their ability to provide quality care to underserved communities.

The partnership between ACLM and NMA is crucial in addressing health disparities and promoting health equity. Research shows that Black and other underrepresented minority clinicians are more likely to practice in and treat patients from disadvantaged neighborhoods. By supporting the education and training of these clinicians, organizations like ACLM and NMA are working towards eliminating health disparities and ensuring quality healthcare for all.

NMA’s upcoming annual Convention and Scientific Assembly in New York City will provide a platform for Black medical professionals to come together, share knowledge, and engage with partners like ACLM. This event underscores the importance of collaboration and education in advancing health equity and improving outcomes for underserved communities.

In conclusion, the partnership between ACLM and NMA highlights the critical need to support and develop Black medical professionals to ensure quality healthcare for historically underserved communities. By working together to address lifestyle-related chronic diseases and promote health equity, these organizations are making significant strides towards a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.