On May 21, Governor Mike DeWine announced initial findings from his Minority Health Strike Force. The team was formed in April in response to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on African Americans who make up 14% of Ohio’s population, but represent 26% of positive COVID-19 cases, 31% of COVID-19 hospitalizations, and 17% of COVID-19 deaths in Ohio. Recommendations were created using feedback from the Strike Force’s Health Care, Resources, Data, and Education subcommittees.
- Establishing culturally appropriate and accessible COVID-19 exposure notification services for communities of color,
- Expanding testing capacity and access for minorities and high-risk populations,
- Using data to prioritize resources in the communities that have the highest need,
- Developing and launching a statewide, culturally-sensitive outreach campaign that educates African Americans and communities of color on COVID-19, health disparities, and social determinants of health.
The Minority Health Strike Force’s preliminary report will soon be available on the Ohio Department of Health website. Final recommendations will be issued on Thursday, June 11. Gov. DeWine also announced that the Strike Force will work with Us for Us to unveil a new communications campaign aimed at Ohio’s minority populations called, “Stay in the Fight.” This campaign will focus on the need to stay informed, stay involved, and stay inspired during the pandemic.