This policy brief from the Colorado Trust describes the opportunities to advance racial and ethnic health equity through the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) in Colorado. The brief examines the numerous sections of the ACA which can address health equity, from expansion of health insurance coverage, to health care delivery systems reforms, to community prevention activities. The brief also describes ACA provisions relating to demographic data collection, cultural competency, and health workforce development. The brief concludes with four principles for ACA implementation that advance health equity:
- Coverage does not assure access
- Data is power
- Collaboration is key
- Health equity is a priority
Ignatius Bau 