VHEI works to address and eliminate disparities in healthcare for marginalized communities through targeted outreach, education programs, and direct medical services. Our efforts focus on addressing the root causes of health disparities, empowering BIPOC Vermonters to take charge of their health.

Dental Health Luis Calderin Dental Health Luis Calderin

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Life Expectancy

Oral health is a crucial indicator of overall health. Most oral diseases and conditions share risk factors with the leading noncommunicable diseases (cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes). These risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets high in free sugars, all traditionally seen at higher rates in BIPOC communities.

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Social Determinants Luis Calderin Social Determinants Luis Calderin

What Are The Social Determinants of Health?

Social Determinants of Health are the social, economic, and environmental factors that impact health and contribute to health disparities. For Black Americans, several SDOHs disproportionately affect health outcomes. These include economic status, education access, healthcare access, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community contexts.

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Social Determinants Luis Calderin Social Determinants Luis Calderin

Poverty As An SDOH

Poverty is a social determinant of health (SDOH) that can significantly impact the health and well-being of BIPOC communities. Poverty can lead to social and economic disadvantages that can hold BIPOC communities back and cause barriers to success. If you are living in poverty in Vermont and seeking support and resources, we encourage you to explore these resources.

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COVID-19 Luis Calderin COVID-19 Luis Calderin

What Is The Bivalent Vaccine?

Moderna and Pfizer both have new bivalent vaccines that target the original strain of coronavirus and omicron subvariants (including the highly contagious BA.4 and BA.5), which have been rapidly spreading throughout the world for the last few months.

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Mental Health Luis Calderin Mental Health Luis Calderin

The National Suicide Prevention Hotline Number Is 988

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is the new and revised program adopted from the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. After contacting 9-8-8, trained crisis counselors will be available 24/7 through call, text, and chat to provide immediate support for those who are experiencing suicide, substance use, or any other mental health or emotionally distressing crisis.

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