A lack of medical coverage is affecting millions of people in America, with Latinos being disproportionately affected.
Latinos are less likely to have health insurance, they are more likely to die from diabetes than non-Hispanic white Americans, and they are less likely to have routine medical examinations.
The Hispanic Federation focuses on improving access to health insurance and has helped about 155,000 households enroll in free or low-cost health insurance coverage in New York State.
Obstacles to coverage include navigating enrollment and language barriers.
The Hispanic Federation was established in 1990 to cater to the needs of New York City's Latino residents.
Latinos now make up more than 35 percent of uninsured adults in the city.
A 2022 Hispanic Federation report identified deportation and stigma associated with conditions like mental illnesses, addiction, and HIV as additional coverage barriers.
Conclusion: Health inequity is a complex and stubborn problem. For Latino communities, addressing it starts with the simple step of tackling the initial language barrier, a task the Hispanic Federation is leading.