AgeRejuvenation Offers Guidance for Black Women on Doctor Advocacy
AgeRejuvenation has released a guide aimed at empowering Black women to better advocate for themselves during medical appointments, addressing disparities in healthcare.
AgeRejuvenation, a company in the health sector, has published a guide designed to help Black women improve their self-advocacy during doctor visits. The resource addresses the heightened risks that Black women face within the U.S. healthcare system, particularly concerning maternal health.
Black women in the United States are three times more likely to die from pregnancy- or childbirth-related causes. The World Health Organization links this disparity to gaps in timely and respectful care. Recent high-profile cases, including the deaths of YouTube influencer Jessica Pettway and former NFL cheerleader Krystal Anderson, have highlighted these critical issues.
Dr. Dawn Ericsson, Chief Medical Officer at AgeRejuvenation, shared her experiences as a Black woman in healthcare, noting instances of stereotyping and lack of thorough information. She emphasized that while her medical background provides an advantage, it can be daunting for patients who are unsure of what to ask.
Dr. Erkeda DeRouen, Founder of The Pace Makerz, echoed these concerns, stating that Black women are frequently subjected to "gaslighting," misdiagnosis, and inequitable care, regardless of their socioeconomic status. She referenced celebrities like Beyoncé and Serena Williams as examples of women who have faced pregnancy-related hardships.
The guide outlines five key strategies for self-advocacy: seek trusted medical sources, prepare for appointments by listing concerns and questions, do not hesitate to ask for a second opinion, question anything that feels incorrect, and speak up. AgeRejuvenation stresses that patients are their own best advocates for their health.