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Payne, Jr. Discusses Importance of Health Equity at Newark Roundtable

September 3, 2015

Newark, N.J.Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) today delivered welcoming remarks and participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by the Health Equity Leadership & Exchange Network (HELEN), Kennedy Forum, and Morehouse School of Medicine. The roundtable was entitled Intersection of Health Equity, Integrated Care, and Quality Improvement.

“The 10th Congressional District of New Jersey is one of the most diverse areas in the country,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “So, workforce diversity and cultural competence in health care, including better provider-patient communication and health literacy issues, are of utmost importance. By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, this roundtable will help bring to light the importance of a comprehensive approach to address health issues in our communities. These types of partnerships are necessary to bring us closer to a health system that truly reflects and meets the needs of every community.”

The event took place at the Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and brought together a diverse range of experts, including community based organizations, health professionals, and providers, to discuss the challenges they face in expanding health care access and improving quality of care. The findings will be included in a comprehensive report to the White House and federal agencies later this year.

Congressman Payne, Jr. was joined at the event by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Congressman Frank Pallone, Barnabas Health CEO Barry Ostrowsky, and former Congressman Patrick Kennedy, who delivered the keynote address.