Early data in New York City showed racial disparity in vaccine distribution, leaving Latino or Hispanic or Black or African American populations behind. Public health experts, including ICAP’s Wafaa El-Sadr, MD, MPH, MPA, and elected officials in New York fear a continued lack of access to this data will worsen the health inequities the COVID-19 pandemic exposed.
“Such data is critical for identifying why communities are being left behind,” said El-Sadr. She cited issues like the lack of access to internet technology or transportation. Demographic data can also pinpoint who is reluctant to get vaccinated. “Once we know why, then we can actually tailor the interventions based on the reasons for this disparity,” said El-Sadr.
