E71 - Disparities, Disease, and Desperation: The Impact of COVID-19 on Physical and Mental Health in Black Americans

Healthcare disparities occur around the world, due to a complex, multifaceted situation that results from socioeconomic hardships, psychosocial stress, and cultural differences. In the United States, these disparities are often seen in minority communities, such as Hispanics and Black Americans. When a pandemic, such as COVID-19 occurs, it can expose these disparities in the most tragic ways. Current statistics surrounding healthcare disparities during the pandemic are staggering, suggesting that COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted the Black American community. In this important and timely interview with Dr. Napoleon Higgins, we address your most pressing questions on why this is occurring, and how awareness can improve this situation for future generations. Dr. Napoleon Higgins, Jr., is a psychiatrist in the Houston/Clear Lake City Area. He currently serves as Owner, CEO and President of Bay Pointe Behavioral Health Service, Inc., and South East Houston Research Group, Inc. He also practices as the Medical Director of Hold My Hand Residential Treatment Center. Dr. Higgins specializes in treating mental health disorders through medication management, psychotherapy and behavioral training.