Tidbits of Joy #63 - Thriving with Equity

Dear AdNet Employees, Clients and Friends;

When I hear the word, equity, my heart feels full knowing that people have access to what they need in the manner in which serves them best. Equality and Equity are different and there is an assumption that if everyone has equal amounts then the overall goal is achieved. We all have different needs and what may be an addition for one person may pose a difficulty for another if they don’t access it in the same way.

A good definition to make the distinction between the words: Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Equity recognizes that each person has different circumstances and allocates the exact resources needed to reach an equal outcome. A simple example could be that two people are given a car. If one person does not drive or has no interest in driving, then the car offers no value. The equity is that the individuals are served based on their needs.

AdNet serves the healthcare industry in both the private and public sector. Our customers are subject matter experts in equity and ensuring that people have a voice in equitable healthcare and equal employment opportunities. They are masterful at protecting the rights of those who either have no voice or have had their voices diminished. This month, my podcast, Room At The Table, is titled “How Equity Creates Thriving Organizations” with my special guests Sam McClure, Executive Director of the Center for LGBTQ Health Equity and Aya Shuman, Executive Director of the Institute for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Both amazing leaders are from Chase Brexton Health Care.

I left the podcast with a clearer understanding of equity and the necessity of equitable healthcare. A vendor opened my eyes about healthcare access in that the premiums are rising where they resemble a monthly rent or mortgage payment. It’s true and how did we get here?? This is wrong on every level for people to struggle to have proper health care. As an elder, I cringe at the cost of my monthly premium simply because I am an elder. Most everywhere you look, healthcare is becoming a luxury when it should be a right.

My wish for all of us is that we pay close attention to equity and bring it to the forefront in our organizations and everyday lives.

Thank you for being on this journey with me.

Betsy Cerulo - CEO