Health Equity

Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and the country's most diverse city with a multicultural population of more than 5.5 million in the metropolitan area. Understanding the social determinants of health and other risk factors associated with health disparities, including access, treatment, and outcomes, is fundamental to reaching health equity and building healthier communities.

Baylor College of Medicine is committed to addressing the needs of our diverse Texas and national population, especially those traditionally underserved by the healthcare system. The Office of Community Engagement & Health Equity partners with leaders within academic units across the College to improve cultural competence and health equity within the education, research, clinical care, and community outreach mission areas.

Increase your understanding of key terms associated with health equity including health disparities and social determinants of health.

Many Baylor College of Medicine led research initiatives address topics of critical importance to underserved populations including healthcare disparities, cultural competence in medicine and education, nutrition and quality of healthcare delivery in different settings.

View a list of community health needs assessment (CHNA) developed by our education affiliates, as well as health equity data and resources from federal, state and local agencies.

View a list of the external and internal funding opportunities to conduct mission-related activities to address health disparities and social determinants of health.