Association Launches Campaign to Address 'Cardiology Deserts'
The Association of Black Cardiologists has launched a dedicated campaign to raise awareness about "cardiology deserts"—areas where residents, particularly Black communities, have minimal or no access to cardiology specialists. The initiative primarily focuses on regions in Louisiana, Georgia, Mississippi, and Arkansas.
Extent of the Issue
Research from GoodRx indicates that over 16 million Black Americans lack sufficient cardiology services, with the majority residing in the southern United States. A 2024 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology revealed that nearly 50% of U.S. counties do not have a practicing cardiologist; this figure climbs to 86% in rural areas, affecting approximately 22 million Americans.
Contributing Factors and Risks
"Higher poverty levels, limited insurance coverage, and scarce specialist referrals contribute to increased risks of heart attacks, heart failure, and complex medical conditions," explained Dr. Keith C. Ferdinand, former chief science officer for the association and a preventive cardiology expert at Tulane University....