Public health agencies are partnering with transportation departments to tackle health inequities stemming from lack of access to medical care, according to a new report from the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO). The report highlights how four states are using cross-sector collaborations and flexible funding strategies to improve transportation options for underserved communities.
In Oregon, a decade-long memorandum of understanding between health and transportation agencies has led to the inclusion of health goals in statewide transportation plans. Vermont has launched pilot programs offering rides to substance abuse treatment and employment opportunities. Arizona created a centralized system to coordinate hospital transfers, particularly benefiting Indian Health Service and rural facilities. North Carolina implemented an electronic referral network connecting residents to transportation and other social services.
The report notes that transportation barriers disproportionately impact low-income households and marginalized communities, leading to missed medical appointments and worse health outcomes. By addressing these disparities, states aim to improve health equity.
“Inadequate transportation has long been cited as a major barrier to accessing healthcare, leading to late or missed appointments and delayed or missed medication use, which all contribute to worsening health outcomes,” the report states.
ASTHO recommends that health departments develop a culture of collaboration, consider using intermediary agencies to coordinate budgets, and apply for grants allowing funding flexibility. The organization also emphasizes the importance of robust program evaluations to demonstrate impact and secure future funding for transportation initiatives targeting health disparities.
See “Cross Sector Collaborations:Addressing Health Inequities in Access to Care Through Public Health and Transportation Partnerships” (June 1, 2024)
