Washington’s Minorities – An Overview
A report published in the Seattle Times in 2006 stated that more than half of all people who moved to Washington State since 2000 were minorities. Among these minorities were Hispanic, Asian, Multiracial, and Pacific Islanders. The study proved that they had come to the state, and they were here to stay.
This study reflected a small portion of what was happening all over the United States – more people were coming into the country and classifying as “other than white”. Over 23 percent of people in the state of Washington currently identify as non-whites, which provides for colorful communities all over the state. These demographic changes are assisted by lower birth rates among the white population as well as a consistent immigration from Latin and Asian countries. Another large factor in the Washington shift is the state’s liberal policies, creating an attraction to Latin Americans from America’s Southwest communities.
African Americans, however, are keeping a low Washington profile. The rate of growth for African Americans is slower than that of Asian or Latinos. The Seattle Times attributes this to Washington cities, such as Seattle, being unattractive to young African Americans. If they do live there, they are often enticed to leave the state by advantages to them elsewhere.
What Does this Mean for Health Care?
Health care must pay attention to changing demographics and update on the people who will most likely be coming to them for care. As stated before, minorities have specific health care differences, and must be treated with different types of care. Keeping up on the ebb and flow of the population is more important than ever, since we, as humans, can now move ourselves faster and easier than ever. Doctors and health care providers who stay abreast of specific population needs will do better overall than those who focus on the care of only one group. Education is key; realization of a changing market must be second nature.
Getting Used to Changes
While some Washington areas remain white, others are changing with a flux of minorities, such as Asians and Latinos. Remembering that these people might be coming from a place of inadequate health care is essential. Additionally, understanding culture and working to accept culture will make patients feel more comfortable and come back for important services, such as preventative care. Health care services will serve the most people in the best way possible by remembering to bend a little in the areas of culture and a person’s personal experience with the health care system.
If you’d like to talk more about Washington’s minority numbers, call Vancouver Home Health Care Agency today.
At Vancouver Home Health Care Agency, Caring and Compassion is our business.