Immediate Release

Media Contact: 

Adjoa Kyerematen

akyerematen@nmqf.org

202-220-8505 

National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) and Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) Join Forces to Close Gaps in Cardiovascular Care

Largest Health Equity Organization and Oldest African American Cardiologist Organization Issue Call to Action at 2024 Annual Summit on Health Disparities 

Washington, D.C. [May 2, 2024] — The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) and the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) are proud to reaffirm their longstanding collaboration with a renewed commitment to close the persistent gaps in cardiovascular care.  This strategic endeavor, marking a bold step in their partnership, leverages decades of combined expertise to implement an integrated approach spanning public policy, clinical care, research, and community engagement.

Cardiovascular diseases disproportionately affect minority populations, with African Americans experiencing higher rates of heart disease, stroke, and other related conditions compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Despite advances in medical technology and treatment options, disparities in cardiovascular outcomes persist, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions.

The collaboration between NMQF and ABC represents a significant step forward in addressing these disparities. By combining NMQF’s expertise in health policy and data-driven solutions with ABC’s commitment to cardiovascular health in minority communities, the partnership aims to implement comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of disparities and improve health outcomes for all.

Key components of the collaboration include:

• Public Policy Advocacy: NMQF and ABC will work together to advocate for policies that promote equitable access to cardiovascular care, including equitable workforce development, improved healthcare infrastructure in underserved communities, and expanded insurance coverage for preventive services.
• Clinical Care Initiatives: The partnership will develop and implement clinical care protocols tailored to the specific needs of minority populations, with a focus on improving screening, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
• Research Collaboration: NMQF and ABC will collaborate on research projects aimed at identifying the underlying factors contributing to disparities in cardiovascular care and developing evidence-based interventions to address them.
• Community Engagement Programs: The collaboration will engage directly with at-risk population and minoritized communities to utilize trusted voices to advance awareness about cardiovascular health, provide culturally competent patient education on prevention and management strategies, and improve provider-patient communication to manage health.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Association of Black Cardiologists to tackle the disparities in cardiovascular care that disproportionately affect minority populations,” said Gary A. Puckrein, PhD, President and CEO of the National Minority Quality Forum. “By combining our resources and expertise, we believe we can make meaningful strides towards achieving health equity for all.”

“Joining forces with the National Minority Quality Forum strengthens our efforts to address significant public health challenges,” said Anthony Fletcher, MD, President of the Association of Black Cardiologists.  “Together, we deepen our commitment to eliminating the gaps in cardiovascular care, ensuring equitable access to quality care for every individual.” 

The partnership between NMQF and ABC exemplifies a shared commitment to advancing health equity and improving outcomes for minority populations. Through collaborative efforts across policy, clinical care, research, and community engagement, the two organizations aim to drive meaningful change and create a future where everyone has the opportunity to lead a heart-healthy life.

For more information about the National Minority Quality Forum and the Association of Black Cardiologists, please visit www.nmqf.org and www.abcardio.org, respectively.

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About the National Minority Quality Forum

Founded in 1998, National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) is a United States-based, health care research, education, and advocacy organization whose mission is to reduce patient risk and advance health equity by assuring optimal care for all. The mission is to reduce patient risk of hospitalizations, emergency room visits, disabilities, and death, while also promoting high-quality, long lives, particularly for the most vulnerable. NMQF utilizes data and research to support and mobilize healthcare organizations, leaders, policymakers, and patients in advocating for optimal care for every individual, especially those in minoritized communities. For more information, please visit http://www.nmqf.org.

About the Association of Black Cardiologists

Established in 1974, the Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC), a nonprofit organization, is committed to improving cardiovascular health and addressing inequities primarily in underserved and marginalized communities. Guided by the principle “Every Heart Counts,” ABC focuses on research, education, advocacy, and workforce development to foster inclusive healthcare practices and enhance health outcomes. Emphasizing inclusivity, ABC’s membership extends beyond race or specialization, welcoming a diverse array of healthcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates. The organization actively builds a diverse healthcare workforce and extends its educational outreach to health professionals, patients, community leaders, and policymakers. These initiatives aim to broaden health equity and positively impact public health. For more information, please visit www.abcardio.org.