Legislative awareness of health disparities: Implications for public health policymaking

Racial and ethnic disparities in health are a major concern in state and national health care reform legislation and policy and are important to study and understand in efforts to address such equities. An exploratory study in which 43 key legislators from the Massachusetts General Court were interviewed to determine their level of awareness and knowledge regarding health disparities; what variables affect their knowledge and awareness of health disparities; and what resources they turn to when looking for information on different aspects of health, including health disparities. Using both open-ended and a set of forced response questions, to determine their level of awareness and knowledge and assess the impact of a number of independent variables on their level of awareness and knowledge, including the following: political/party affiliation, gender, race/ethnicity of the legislators, committee membership, level of education, and tenure in the legislature. Data was also gathered on how legislators gather their health information when writing policy, determine what bills to sponsor, and responding to constituent concerns. Preliminary analysis and results of statistical tests revealed that a legislator's party affiliation was significantly related to the legislator's awareness and knowledge of health disparities. The presenter will share whether and how other factors affect knowledge and awareness of health disparities and suggest ways to effectively communicate with legislators, key stakeholders, and other decision-makers. Using data on how legislators gather their health information for policymaking or constituent work will assist advocates in determining how to best communicate their message and advocate for their cause.