Multicultural Perspective on Health and Tech

Technology in the healthcare industry plays a crucial role in improving the overall outcomes for diverse populations, particularly Black and Latino communities. By leveraging technology, healthcare providers have been able to address the unique challenges faced by these communities, ensuring better access to care, increased patient engagement, and enhanced health outcomes.

One significant benefit is the advancement of telehealth, which has proven to be a valuable tool for overcoming barriers to healthcare access in underserved communities. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research1, telehealth has helped bridge the gap in healthcare services for diverse communities, offering convenient access to healthcare professionals, reducing transportation barriers, and increasing the likelihood of timely medical interventions.

Technology has facilitated the development of personalized healthcare interventions that cater to the specific needs of Black and Latino communities. By leveraging electronic health records (EHRs) and data analytics, healthcare providers can identify health disparities, tailor interventions, and track outcomes more effectively. According to a report by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology2, EHRs have helped identify disparities in chronic disease management, preventive care, and health outcomes among diverse populations, enabling healthcare providers to implement targeted interventions that address these disparities and improve overall health outcomes.

With technological advances in healthcare paired with equitable practices in access, diverse populations are empowered to actively participate in their own healthcare management. Mobile health applications and wearable devices have become increasingly popular, allowing individuals to monitor their health, access educational resources, and engage in self-care activities. Research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research3 found that Black and Latino patients who used mobile health applications reported increased medication adherence, improved chronic disease management, and a greater sense of empowerment and control over their health.

About the Author

Victor Marrero is a VP Director of Multicultural Strategy at Zenith with 15 years of experience helping clients navigate the multicultural landscape. Victor has worked across Total Market and Multicultural focused brands, experiencing the growth of the audience and the efforts behind reaching them authentically. He guides his clients to develop their nuanced MC Strategy and unlock tremendous business growth. Victor currently works across Publicis Alchemy to reach multicultural audiences within the world of Pharmaceuticals. He is also part of Zenith’s Cultural Convergence Team, helping drive agency growth through the intersection of culture, content, and commerce.