As COVID-19 continues to pose risks to vulnerable populations, Dr. Ala Stanford, founder of the Black Doctors Covid-19 Consortium and the Ala Stanford Center for Health Equity, remains at the forefront of public health advocacy.
In a recent interview with Ali Velshi, Dr. Stanford discussed the latest developments in COVID-19 guidance and her new book, “Take Care of Them Like My Own: Faith, Fortitude, and a Surgeon’s Fight for Health Justice.”
Current COVID-19 Situation and Vaccine Guidance
Despite the widespread availability of vaccines reducing the immediate danger for most Americans, COVID-19 cases are on the rise in 20 states, according to the CDC.
Dr. Stanford highlighted that while vaccines have been instrumental in controlling the pandemic, they are not a cure-all. She emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated, particularly for those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or have chronic health conditions.
Dr. Stanford explained that immunity from the vaccine wanes over time, which contributes to the current surge.
“The vaccine remains crucial in reducing severe disease, hospitalization, and transmission,” Stanford noted. “It is especially important for those who are at higher risk and those who have had COVID previously.”
Trust and Community Engagement
During the pandemic’s peak, Dr. Stanford and her team provided essential services to underserved communities, often in challenging circumstances.
She stressed that her effectiveness in guiding the Black and Brown communities through the pandemic was not solely due to her race but was earned through dedication and presence.
“I had to earn that trust,” Dr. Stanford stated. “It wasn’t about just being Black. It was about being present, providing barrier-free care, and engaging with communities directly.”
Dr. Stanford’s approach included setting up testing sites in parking lots and other accessible locations to reach those who lacked reliable healthcare access.
Her work highlighted the systemic issues within healthcare that contributed to mistrust among marginalized communities.
The Impact of Representation in Healthcare
Dr. Stanford discussed how having Black healthcare professionals can significantly improve health outcomes in Black communities.
Studies show that even one Black doctor in a county can lead to better overall health outcomes and increased life expectancy for the community.
This is partly due to the shared cultural understanding and lived experiences that can enhance patient-provider communication and trust.
Reflections on Her Role and New Book
Dr. Stanford’s new book, “Take Care of Them Like My Own,” delves into her experiences and the challenges she faced in her mission for health justice.
She reflected on the personal and professional struggles of navigating healthcare disparities and her role as a trusted messenger during the pandemic.
“I had to balance my scientific knowledge with the cultural and emotional needs of my community,” she said. “I didn’t take that responsibility lightly.”
As the fight against COVID-19 continues, Dr. Stanford remains committed to advocating for equitable health solutions and supporting vulnerable populations.
Her work underscores the critical need for accessible healthcare and the importance of trust and representation in addressing public health crises.
For more insights into Dr. Stanford’s journey and her contributions to health equity, readers can explore her book and follow her ongoing efforts through the Ala Stanford Center for Health Equity and the Black Doctors Covid-19 Consortium.
