NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Hundreds of people across Tennessee are working together to make sure minorities are taken care of during the pandemic.
According to the Tennessee Department of Health, 59% of people who have tested positive are white, and 32% are black. These numbers have been shifting over the last couple of weeks.
The state wants to make sure everyone is included when it comes to testing and care, so a new health disparities task force was created. It will engage nonprofits, faith leaders, legislators and local leaders to regularly communicate with minority communities.
Testing efforts will be expanded for the under-served population and focus on better prevention efforts.
Dr. Kimberly Lamar with TDH says this is about the bigger picture of the COVID-19 impact.
"The purpose of the task force immediately will be able to address any challenges, barriers and needs relative to the COVID response, but we see this task force being critical as we continue to have long-term conversations and develop strategies, polices and response relative to health disparities overall," Dr. Lamar said.
In the next few days, commercials will be launched across the state to give more awareness and help connect people with resources.
