Addressing Health Disparities in Violence

Healthcare disparities exist throughout the medical field and are highly pronounced concerning violence in the Black community. Addressing it involves not just an understanding of the problem, but the ability to enact widespread interventions at multiple levels, particularly the systemic level.

Historically, investigations into the drivers of firearm violence have been largely at the individual or interpersonal level, but recent research has centered social determinants of health and structural racism as potential drivers of disparities in firearm violence. Understanding these potential contributors of these disparities allows for targeted solutions to combat violence and promote health equity.

A full investigation into the drivers of disparities is the key to successful implementation of public health strategies that promote health equity.