Creating a Healthier Workforce: The Importance of Health Equity in the Workplace

The American Heart Association recently hosted the first annual Health Equity in the Workforce Leadership Summit, bringing together representatives from various local businesses to discuss the importance of addressing health equity in the workplace. The summit aimed to facilitate the sharing of information among different companies, helping leaders gain a better understanding of the diverse needs of their employees.

One of the keynote speakers at the event was Tiffany Gholston, board chair of the American Heart Association of the Triangle, who emphasized that healthcare should not be approached with a one-size-fits-all mentality. Gholston highlighted that many employers have good intentions but may not know where to start when it comes to addressing health equity in the workplace.

Notable companies such as Deloitte, IBM, Lenovo, and Advanced Auto Parts had representatives present at the event. Additionally, faculty members from Duke University and North Carolina State University were in attendance to discuss the challenges faced by recent graduates entering the local workforce.

Gholston underscored that healthcare should be tailored to meet the unique needs of each employee and that employers must provide resources and support to ensure that their employees are healthy and productive. She expressed hope that this summit would serve as a platform for ongoing communication and action, ensuring that employees have access to the appropriate resources they need.

As mental health issues became more prevalent due to the pandemic in 2020, Gholston emphasized that it’s crucial for employers to address these concerns proactively. She stressed that addressing health equity in