Racial Disparities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Since December 2019, COVID-19 has become a major health issue threatening health conditions of people all around the world, overwhelming public health systems. In order to take a further look at the vulnerability of minorities facing the pandemic, the aim of this study was to review the racial disparities among different ethnic groups in the United States. Statistical data collected from the Epic Health Record System was analyzed along with data analysis from Kaiser Family Foundation to look at the influence of the pandemic on ethnic groups. In contrast to White respondents, Non-White ethnic groups have dramatically higher hospitalization and mortality rate. The high infection rate could possibly be a marker of underlying issues like income and healthcare disparities. Structural and systematical racism could play a huge role in public health issues and action from the federal government will be necessary to resolve the health crisis.