Abbott and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) announced that Abbott has become the first anchor sponsor of the Health Equity Now (HEN) platform to address health disparities for people with diabetes. Abbott’s sponsorship includes a three-year, US$5 million commitment to support the ADA’s advocacy and community-driven projects aimed at removing barriers to care and providing greater access to the latest medical technologies and health resources for underserved diabetes populations.
“It’s important that people with diabetes in the US have access to the latest innovations to effectively manage their condition and help them thrive,” said Tracey D Brown, chief executive officer of the American Diabetes Association. “It is time to tear down the systemic barriers that separate us based on zip code, income level, education, color and gender, and it’s time that we demand health equity now.”
Data show that compared to white adults, the risk of being diagnosed with diabetes is higher among Black Americans (77%), Latinos (66%), and Asian Americans (18%). With 50% of low-income Americans with diabetes having lost some or all income during the pandemic, Covid-19 has brought greater attention to the large gaps in the US healthcare system, shining a light on the health and economic disparities faced by Americans in underserved communities.
To address these health inequities, the ADA created the Health Equity Bill of Rights, which includes a core right to access the latest medical advances. Abbott will support the ADA’s advocacy efforts to tear down barriers limiting access to high-quality medical technologies, including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) advancements, among others.
“No matter someone’s race, income level or background, quality care and life-changing technologies should be affordable and broadly accessible to all people living with diabetes,” said Jared Watkin, senior vice president, Diabetes Care, Abbott. “Abbott is proud to support the ADA’s goal to work toward health equity and to advance access to the latest technologies for people with diabetes, helping them lead healthier, fuller lives with dignity.”
Another primary focus of Abbott’s sponsorship will drive sustained community engagement through local programs and initiatives to improve diabetes-related health outcomes. With Abbott’s support, the ADA will immediately begin work to bring together experts and collaborate with underserved communities to develop key program outreach models that include public health education, professional education and training, and other community services that will be rolled out in 2021.
