Disparities in Health Care

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted disparities in care for countless Americans, as it has become evident that people of color and other marginalized groups are disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus. It is well documented that people with preexisting and underlying health conditions are more susceptible to contracting and having more severe symptoms because of the coronavirus, which can be compounded by inequities in access to comprehensive health care. Furthermore, disparities in access to cancer prevention and treatment have also been well documented. ASTRO supported year-end legislation that expanded access to clinical trials to underserved populations.

As Congress works toward solutions to address the health care needs of the underserved and eliminate disparities, ASTRO aims to lend itself as a partner in the efforts to bridge the gap for marginalized groups.