Medical Association Recognizes Racism as a Threat to Public Health

At the most recent Board of Censors meeting, the Medical Association of the State of Alabama pledged to recognize and confront racism and racial inequalities within our society and the healthcare system. The Medical Association further recognizes the need to end systemic racism in our country and to work towards a better, fairer, and more just society. 

The Medical Association released the following statement following their meeting last week:

• The Medical Association opposes all forms of racism
• The Medical Association considers racism a public health crisis and a threat to public health
• The Medical Association understands the elimination of health disparities will not be achieved without first acknowledging the contributions of all races to health and social inequalities
• The Medical Association understands that we have a responsibility to actively work to eliminate discriminatory policies and practices across all of healthcare
• The Medical Association supports ending racial discrimination in medical care and the equitable access to quality health care services
• The Medical Association encourages current and future physicians to be advocates for justice

We recognize that worsening inequities, unequal access to care, and the racial disparities of practicing physicians all have roots in systemic racism and must be confronted. The Medical Association of the State of Alabama understands that there is still tremendous work to be done to ensure that everyone has the opportunity, resources, and conditions to achieve optimal health. The Medical Association is committed to being a part of that solution.

Sincerely,

President John S. Meigs, MD and Board of Censors