In Orange County, women’s health is a bellwether for the well-being of the entire community.
While Orange County women generally boast better health outcomes than the state and national averages across 200 indicators, significant disparities emerge when data is broken down by zip code or race/ethnicity. This stark reality underscores the urgent need to address health inequities to ensure that every woman can thrive, which ultimately benefits the community as a whole.
UNDERSTANDING THE DISPARITIES
A closer examination of health data reveals that systemic issues continue to challenge women in various communities. Latinas in Orange County, for example, experience disproportionately high rates of obesity and diabetes, exacerbated by post-pregnancy weight retention and financial stress. Dr. Shaista Malik, Founding Associate Vice Chancellor for Integrative Health, Susan & Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, notes, “Socioeconomic status is the dominant driver of these disparities. Poverty creates a cascade where healthcare often competes with basic needs.”
Dr. Allyson Brooks, Ginny Ueberroth Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair of the Women’s Health Institute at Hoag, says, “Black women continue to experience significantly worse maternal health outcomes, reflecting longstanding systemic inequities, including racism. They are more likely to have their pain dismissed and often receive less breastfeeding support than other mothers.”
Locally, data gaps exist due to the relatively small Black population, making it difficult to fully understand and address these disparities.
ROOT CAUSES AND CHALLENGES
The root causes of health disparities are multifaceted, involving socioeconomic factors, chronic stress, environmental toxin exposure, language barriers, and limited transportation. “Women in lower-income neighborhoods face a pervasive caregiving burden that causes them to deprioritize their own health,” explains Dave Lugo, CEO of MOMS Orange County.
These challenges are present at three critical life stages:
- Reproductive Years: New mothers from underserved communities encounter pressures surrounding breastfeeding, postpartum mental health, and family planning. Jennifer Roberson, Program Manager at BreastfeedLA, which serves Orange County families, highlights the importance of support systems, stating, “Community engagement is crucial to uncovering and addressing these gaps.”
- Midlife (45–60): Women often juggle caring for both children and aging parents, leaving little time for self-care. Health deferred in younger years can evolve into serious conditions. This group is frequently referred to as “the invisible” due to the lack of attention to their unique challenges.
- Older Adults (61+): As the only Orange County demographic projected to grow over the next 15 years, older women face increased risks of dementia. Caregiving responsibilities often delay their own health care until conditions become severe and costly.
PROGRAMS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Thankfully, innovative programs are helping close these gaps. Hoag has developed a comprehensive model designed to meet women where they are, rather than requiring them to navigate complex healthcare systems on their own. The Melinda Hoag Smith Center for Healthy Living offers a range of services at low or no cost, including dental, legal, behavioral health, and wellness services. As Dr. Brooks explains, “By co-locating nonprofit partners on our campus and connecting patients with these resources before they leave the hospital, we’re removing barriers and making it easier for women to access the care and support they need.”
Hoag’s telehealth services and expanded urgent care options further reduce barriers to care for busy women and families. “Our Hoag On Demand service connects patients with a nurse practitioner in as little as 20 minutes, making high-quality care more accessible when and where women need it,” says Dr. Brooks.
At the UCI Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, culturally appropriate models bring integrative, preventive care to underserved Latinx women. Dr. Malik describes the initiative: “Group acupuncture, nutrition education, and diabetes prevention programs provide accessible, culturally relevant care that addresses the community’s needs.”
MOMS Orange County also plays a pivotal role by serving 2,500 clients annually through culturally competent home visitation and health education programs, especially in the Latinx and Vietnamese communities. “Trust built over 34 years is our key asset,” says Dave Lugo. “Our bilingual home visitors, many of whom are former program participants, provide crucial support from prenatal care through 18 months postpartum.”
EMPOWERING A BRIGHTER FUTURE
As we continue to uncover and address these disparities, community engagement remains essential. Jennifer Roberson of BreastfeedLA emphasizes, “We must actively listen to the voices of those affected and tailor our programs to meet their specific needs.”
When women thrive, the entire community benefits. By addressing the root causes of health disparities and implementing innovative, culturally sensitive programs, we can foster a healthier, more equitable future for all. By ensuring that every woman in Orange County has access to the care she needs, we build a stronger, more resilient community.
LET’S WORK TOGETHER
Partnering with the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF) provides a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of women and, by extension, the community. By collaborating with OCCF, you can help address the pressing health disparities and systemic issues affecting women in Orange County. The foundation offers numerous ways to get involved, whether by creating a personalized philanthropic plan that reflects your values or by contributing to existing funds that support women’s health initiatives.
Additionally, OCCF facilitates connections with nonprofits that resonate with your philanthropic passions, ensuring your contributions make a meaningful impact. Engaging with OCCF also allows you to involve your family and future generations in charitable activities, fostering a legacy of giving. By working together, we can amplify our efforts and create a healthier, more equitable community for everyone.
