Baylor Health Care System's journey to provide equitable care

Abstract

Baylor Health Care System* has a long history of addressing health disparities at its hospitals and clinics and in the communities it serves. The organization's definition of health equity has evolved from simply providing care that looks the same for all patients to providing care that is tailored to and effective at producing equitable outcomes for the highly diverse populations of North Texas. Baylor's overarching framework for achieving health equity requires work in three dimensions: improving access to care, improving care delivery, and ultimately producing equitable outcomes for patients. The strategies and tactics used by Baylor have also evolved over time and range from initiatives supporting volunteerism and community service to the operation of a network of clinics tailored to meet the needs of uninsured and underinsured patients. The factors contributing to disparities among different populations include a broad range of health system, medical, and societal issues, many of which are outside the direct scope of influence of hospitals and other healthcare organizations. We share how Baylor has proactively addressed disparities within the organization and its community in the hope of encouraging other hospitals and providers to engage in similar efforts to improve care for all patients.