Columbia, MD – Howard County Health Department Medical Director, Dr. Jacqueline Dougé, has co-authored a new policy statement in association with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) titled, “Racism and Its Impacts on Child and Adolescent Health.”
The goal of recommendations in this pediatrician’s call for action is to help reduce the negative effects that racism can have on children’s health by creating welcoming, culturally competent medical practices that advocate for a reduction in health disparities.
“It’s important, as child health professionals, that we examine our own biases and work with families to gain their trust and confidence,” Dr. Dougé said. “We must be prepared to counsel families of all races on the effects of exposure to racism. That includes talking with victims, bystanders and perpetrators about managing their circumstances and health.”
Dr. Dougé became involved with this policy development due to her service on the AAP Council on Community Pediatrics (COCP) where she served as the council liaison for this project. The COCP promotes community pediatrics through policy, practice and education.
“I congratulate our Health Department Medical Director, Dr. Jacqueline Dougé, on her important work to address the impact of racism on the health of our children,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. “As we continue to work against injustice and toward a more equitable future for all, we must remember how powerfully dangerous and pervasive racial bias can be. We will address health disparities and make the best policy choices for our current and future residents by working with our Health Department to create a safer community for every child and adult.”
“The mission of Howard County Health Department is to Promote, Preserve and Protect the Health of All in Howard County,” said Health Officer Dr. Maura Rossman. “This can only be accomplished by ensuring a safe and equitable environment for our children that is free of racism.”
You can find the full report, “The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health,” here: https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/144/2/e20191765 . Learn more about the Health Department and the services it provides at www.hchealth.org.