Episode 4: Economic Instability

Gentrification has been a driving force behind economic development in DC, but it is also driving underrepresented population out of areas they have lived in for generations.  In this episode, we explore this highly contested issue in DC and the health effects this phenomenon can have on health in the DMV area.

 Art and medicine initially do not seem to intersect significantly, but integrating the arts into medical education and treatments can improve health outcomes. By increasing the effectiveness of preventative wellness education and improving mental health, both major issues in health disparities, art can be incredibly helpful as we work towards health equity. 

In this episode, we talk about the harm of economic instability on healthcare. DC’s income inequality—which tops any state—leads to health inequities between the rich and the poor. Lower levels of income stability can lead to stress-related illnesses as well as environmental health issues. Also, it creates barriers on the path to effective healthcare. 

In this episode, we discuss the issue of food deserts and obesity in Washington DC. Food deserts are areas with few grocery stores. They pose a danger to the health of the residents in the areas, as lack of access to healthy food can lead to obesity and other health problems. 

This episode examines the importance of health equity education in healthcare as well as diversity in the medical education pipeline.

In this episode, we detail some of the health disparities in DC, as well as how the Rodham Institute works to fulfill our commitment to health equity in DC.