The ACC brought together leaders across cardiology, along with other critical stakeholders, for a Health Equity Summit on June 25 focused on building and sustaining adaptive and resilient health systems.

The day-long event included breakout sessions and robust discussions on topics ranging from the business case for health equity to real-world solutions that leverage both community involvement and clinical engagement in the delivery of cardiovascular care. The importance of advocacy for policies and programs that support patient access to care, particularly in underserved communities, was also woven throughout the day.

"Building the business case for health equity and talking through actionable workflows and processes, as well as tools for engaging patients and communities is crucial," said ACC President Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC, in kicking off the event. "It requires commitment, and it requires persistence."

Keynote Speaker Karriem Watson, DHSc, MS, MPH, president and CEO of UI Health Mile Square Health Center, outlined a strategy for making the case for health equity investment, operationalizing that investment, and for establishing and sustaining success over the long-term.

"Embedded within the system, is health inequity. We're not new to this," he said. He shared the importance of developing the narrative, prioritizing clinical areas of focus, establishing actionable measurement, calculating costs and savings and forecasting financial return on investment, and aligning efforts to current resources as key steps in the process to ensure shared understanding of value.

Other speakers shared examples of programs currently underway in communities spanning the U.S. that could be models for larger scale activities. Among them, ACC's Rural Community Health Initiative in Hobbs, NM and joint efforts with ACC's Alaska Chapter to train communities in hands-only CPR. Attendees also heard more about broader Food is Medicine efforts and work in Louisiana with local churches to provide screening and education where people work, live and pray.

In addition to the Summit, the College also honored Richard Allen Williams, MD, FACC, with a named conference room at Heart House. This special tribute, made possible with support from Johnson and Johnson, recognizes Williams' pioneering leadership, bold vision, and unwavering commitment to building a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable cardiovascular profession.

"Dr. Williams and his many accomplishments show us what is possible when purpose meets action," said ACC CEO Cathy Gates.

The ACC also hosted a group of young American Indian/Alaska Native scholars from the American Association of Indian Physicians' National Native American Youth Initiative (NNAYI) at Heart House on June 24. ACC leaders introduced the students to the field of cardiology, including engaging in interactive cardiology workshops and learning how they can help their communities lead heart healthier lives.

"We want the Indigenous People of America to understand we stand with them. We have collaborated with the Association of American Indian Physicians for over three years and look forward to continuing our meaningful partnership," said Melvin R. Echols, MD, FACC, ACC Chief Health Equity Advancement and Inclusion Officer. "The College is proud to support the NNAYI's mission to improve health and eliminate existing health disparities for Native communities."