Advanced Certificate in Health Disparities Policy
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking with Dr. Sofia Ramirez, an expert in health policy and the lead instructor for the advanced certificate in Health Disparities Policy. Dr. Ramirez, could you start by sharing a bit about your experience and what drew you to this field? GUEST: Of course, thank you for having me. I've been working in public health for over 15 years, focusing on reducing health disparities. I've seen firsthand how social determinants can greatly impact health outcomes, which led me to specialize in health disparities policy. HOST: That's fascinating. In your opinion, what are some of the most critical issues in health equity today? GUEST: Currently, we're seeing significant disparities in access to care, particularly for racial and ethnic minorities. Additionally, cultural competency is a major challenge in healthcare, as understanding and addressing diverse patient needs is crucial for health equity. HOST: Absolutely, and those are key components of the Health Disparities Policy course. How do you approach teaching these complex topics to professionals in the field? GUEST: We emphasize data analysis and strategic planning, equipping students with the tools they need to develop effective policy interventions. The course is designed to be interactive, allowing students to engage with real-world scenarios and apply course concepts in practical ways. HOST: That sounds like a powerful learning experience. Considering the current trends, what do you see as the biggest challenges in addressing health disparities in the future? GUEST: One challenge is the rapidly changing healthcare landscape. Policymakers must stay informed and adapt policies to address emerging disparities. Additionally, integrating equity principles into all levels of healthcare and policy decision-making is essential for lasting change. HOST: Dr. Ramirez, thank you for your insights and for sharing your expertise with us today. We're excited to see the impact this advanced certificate program will have on health disparities policy. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure discussing these important issues with you.
