As Rhode Island is an ethnically and culturally diverse state, I am interested in researching the barriers that prevent immigrants from accessing treatment. I hope to study obstacles such as language, cultural, and educational barriers and explore how the state is addressing these needs through community health services. Specifically, I am interested in focusing on reproductive/sexual health and chronic pain management in immigrant Rhode Island populations.
Health equity means taking into account the specific needs of individuals and communities. Barriers often prevent certain populations from receiving the treatment they are entitled to. Promoting health equity means better understanding these barriers and breaking them down by establishing services to address specific needs. Only when we recognize the intricacies of our diverse population can we truly provide equitable healthcare for all.