Embracing the spirit of unity, strength, and shared humanity, we present the fourth installment of our “Celebrating Diversity: Voices from our Kyruus Health Community” blog series. This week we’re shining a spotlight on Pam Clark, Senior Director of Ambulatory Access at UAB Medicine.
With over 18 years of operational leadership experience, Pam has played a pivotal role in fostering innovation within the healthcare landscape. Join us as Pam shares her journey, emphasizing the critical role of care access in mitigating health disparities within the Black community.
From managing chronic conditions to improving maternal and child health, Pam provides insightful perspectives on the gaps that must be addressed for a more equitable healthcare system. As we celebrate Pam’s unique voice, we continue our commitment to amplifying narratives that contribute to a healthcare landscape that is truly accessible, inclusive, and compassionate.
Pam Clark
Senior Director, Ambulatory Access at UAB Medicine
Tell us a bit about your background and the story of how you came to be connected to Kyruus Health?
I have over 18 years of experience as an operations leader, demonstrating proficiency in managing diverse business programs at all levels, encompassing planning, budgeting, development, and administration. My expertise includes strong operational and leadership skills, deep knowledge of strategic planning, and a proven track record of building high-performing teams dedicated to delivering customer value. I take pride in fostering trust-based relationships with staff, peers, and leaders at various levels.
Shortly after joining UAB Medicine 10 years ago, we established a connection with Kyruus Health and eagerly delved into the details of the product offering, with both organizations eager to explore innovative solutions in healthcare.
How would you identify yourself?
I identify as an American Female of African descent. My heritage and cultural background are important aspects of who I am, and I take pride in my identity.
From your perspective, what does celebrating Black History Month mean to you?
Celebrating Black History Month holds great significance to me as it provides an opportunity to honor and acknowledge the remarkable contributions, achievements, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history.
It is a time to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, recognizing the leaders, activists, and everyday heroes who have shaped our world.
It is a call to celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and foster unity; reminding everyone that the narrative of Black history is an integral part of the broader human story, and by recognizing and appreciating this history, we contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
How do you perceive the role of care access in health for the Black community?
Access to quality healthcare plays a pivotal role in addressing and mitigating health disparities that disproportionately affect Black individuals. Based on my experiences, here are a few key aspects of how care access influences health for the black community:
- Management of chronic conditions: access to ongoing healthcare is vital for managing chronic conditions prevalent in the Black community, such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Maternal and child health: access to prenatal care, family planning services, and maternal health support contributes to healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for both mothers and infants.
- Preventive care and early intervention: timely access to preventive care and early intervention services is crucial for maintaining overall health.
What are the most significant gaps that must be addressed to achieve more equitable care?
Achieving more equitable care requires addressing various gaps in the healthcare system. From my experience, some of the most significant gaps include:
- Access to healthcare services: Disparities in access to healthcare facilities and services contribute to unequal health outcomes. Addressing geographical, financial, and cultural barriers is crucial.
- Cultural competence and sensitivity: Inadequate cultural competence and sensitivity among healthcare providers can result in disparities in treatment and care. Training and education programs are needed to enhance understanding and communication.
- Socioeconomic determinants: Socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and employment, significantly impact health outcomes. Addressing these determinants is essential for achieving health equity.
These are just a few gaps but addressing these gaps requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, policymakers, community organizations, and individuals. It involves systemic changes, policy reforms, and a commitment to creating a healthcare system that is truly equitable and inclusive.
