The Columbus Office of Minority Health works to eliminate differences in health status between racial and ethnic minority and non-minority populations by providing leadership and guidance on best ways to address racial and ethnic health disparity and specific health needs of racial and ethnic minority groups.
Mission: To provide leadership to reduce health inequities in minority communities of Columbus and its surrounding areas.
Vision: The office ultimately envisions a society where the opportunity for health equity exists for all persons and ideally, eliminates the social and economic barriers to good health.
What do we mean by "Disparities"?
Health Disparities are the differences in rates of disease, health outcomes and access to healthcare found between different groups of people.
Healthcare Disparities are the differences in the quality of care received by different groups.
Health Equity is a basic principle of public health — that all people have a right to health. Racial and ethnic minorities tend to receive a lower quality of healthcare than non-minorities, even when other factors are the same, such as insurance and income.
Columbus Office of Minority Health 4 Core Work Areas
Monitor and report the health status of minority populations
Inform, educate, and empower people to make choice about their health
Mobilize community partnerships
Develop policies and plans to support health efforts
We are part of the Ohio Commission on Minority Health
Created in 1987, the Ohio Commission on Minority Health serves as the lead agency for six local offices in Ohio:
| Columbus | Dayton | Cleveland |
| Akron | Toledo | Youngstown |
The Columbus Office of Minority Health offers the Effective and Empowered Health Care Consumer Workshop
Become An Active Partner in Your Health Care. It Leads To Better Health.
Improving your health starts with you. Funded by Columbus Medical Association and Columbus Public Health, this workshop gives you the tools you need to partner with your doctor by preparing for your visit, what to do while at your visit, and how to follow-up after your visit. Your instructor will guide you through a workbook of tools and local resources that coach you in:
- Maintaining your health records
- Preparing for healthcare visits.
- Communicate confidently with your healthcare provider (asking questions and providing information).
- Understanding how to be a full partner in your healthcare and to follow your treatment plan.
Workshops are free and are held at various places around Columbus. They have been held at libraries, senior housing complexes, churches, and recreation centers. Call to find the workshop closest to you or to arrange one for a group.
Be sure to check out the Publications, Resources and Links at the top of the page.