Seena Sleem, News Channel 5
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — A recent Nashville health survey shows startling statistics when it comes to the Latino community. The study shows that one third of Latinos don’t have insurance.
The study was put together by the Metro Public Health Department and the non-profit NashvilleHealth. The survey gathered data from 1,805 respondents throughout Davidson County.
“I think it’s reflective of the national trend,” said Andres Martinez, the communications director of Conexión Américas. The non-profit works closely with Latinos in Middle Tennessee, providing them with support. “Latinos consistently rank among most uninsured Americans.”
The study also shows Latinos living in Nashville are more than four times as likely to not have health insurance than their white or black counterparts. Martinez said challenges can include costs. He explains that doctor visits and health insurance can add up.
“Latinos may be not working jobs that provide health insurance,” said Martinez, “They may be working multiple jobs but they’re not including health care so there’s a cost barrier there too.”
Costs coupled with a language barrier can make access to health care difficult and intimidating.
While the findings in the study can be hard to swallow Latino advocates in Nashville said the study can raise awareness about changes needed in our healthcare system.
“I hope this makes us aware that we are part of economy as a whole and we are all important, said Yuri Cunza, the CEO of the Nashville Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, “If one suffers there is a potential for all of us to suffer.”
The access to health care is even worse for those who enter the country illegally.
To read the study, click here.
