How can we tackle deep-rooted health inequities and ensure sustainable change in our communities? In this episode, Dr. Thea James, Vice President of Mission and Associate Chief Medical Officer at Boston Medical Center, and Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health and the Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission, talk about the persistent challenges in achieving health equity, even in resource-rich cities like Boston, where structural inequities and systemic racism continue to drive disparities. COVID-19 exposed and exacerbated these inequities, disproportionately impacting communities of color and emphasizing the need for community-focused solutions. Dr. Thea James explains how institutions like Boston Medical Center have taken innovative steps, such as engaging communities to analyze data and co-create solutions, supported by strong leadership and accountability. Dr. Bisola Ojikutu shines a light on how sustaining momentum for health equity requires shifting from a moral to an economic imperative and embedding systemic changes through legislative action, like the Health Equity Compact's proposed reforms. Long-term success depends on creating policies and structures that transcend political and societal shifts, ensuring equity remains a core priority. Tune into this compelling conversation with Boston's leading experts as they unpack the systemic barriers, innovative solutions, and the critical role of policy in advancing health equity! About CareQuest: CareQuest Institute for Oral Health is a national nonprofit dedicated to creating an oral health care system that is accessible, equitable, and integrated. Learn more about how their advocacy, philanthropy, research, and education are creating a better oral health system at carequest.org/turnonthelights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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