Ann Thorac Surg 2003;76:S1345
© 2003 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Supplement: understanding disparities in cardiovascular and thoracic surgical outcomes in African-Americans
Letter from the Secretary of Health and Human Services
Tommy G. Thompson
Robert S. D. Higgins, M.D. June 10, 2003, President, Association of Black Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons, 1725 W. Harrison Street, Suite 1156, Chicago, Illinois 60612-3824
Dear Dr. Higgins:
We each have a role to play in closing the gap of healthcare disparities among citizens of our country, and we applaud the Association of Black Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons for its leadership and commitment to lower mortality rates in cardiovascular disease among African Americans. The Association's mission to increase access to effective treatments, mentoring future cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, and promoting prevention of heart disease aligns with the Department of Health and Human Services' emphasis on finding solutions to this healthcare dilemma.
I understand that the symposium "Understanding Disparities in Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgical Outcomes in African Americans," presented at the January 2003 meeting of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, afforded an opportunity for both groups to take leadership roles in improving healthcare practices. Discussions highlighted historical trends, cultural influences, comorbidities, disease management, and current outcomes.
Publication of the proceedings in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery will provide even wider access to this important message, and I hope that an inclusive effort with other African-American medical specialty groups will develop from the collaboration begun at the symposium. I applaud the Association of Black Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons for their dedication, and welcome the progress you and your colleagues are sure to achieve to improve health care for all minorities and equitable health care for all Americans.
Sincerely,
