Racial and Ethnic Inequities in the Early Distribution of U.S. COVID-19 Testing Sites and Mortality
2021
In 2020, U.S. COVID-19 testing sites were pivotal not just for diagnosis but also to provide data that would contribute to understanding transmission. This research explored how these sites were distributed in relation to racial and ethnic demographics and its connection to observed disparities in COVID-19 outcomes.
Data from mid-April to late May 2020 revealed that testing sites were not equally distributed among racial groups. Specifically, there was an overrepresentation of testing sites in areas with higher White populations and underrepresentation in areas with more Hispanic residents. There were also fluctuations in representation for Black residents. Areas that had a greater underrepresentation of testing sites for Hispanic populations experienced more significant mortality rates.
The authors concluded that American testing sites were not distributed equitably by race and often underrepresented minority populations who bear a disproportionate burden of COVID-19 cases and deaths. They suggest these data provide empirical support for policies that consider inequities in access when allocating resources.
Racial and Ethnic Inequities in the Early Distribution of U.S. COVID-19 Testing Sites and Mortality
Source:
Dalva-Baird NP, Alobuia WM, Bendavid E et al. Racial and Ethnic Inequities in the Early Distribution of U.S. COVID-19 Testing Sites and Mortality. European Journal of Clinical Investigation 2021; 51 (11). https://doi.org/10.1111%2Feci.13669