With a focus on innovation and research, The Memorial Hermann Institute for the Advancement of Health Equity is dedicated to helping all Houstonians have an equal opportunity to live a healthy life.
“Memorial Hermann believes that good health and well-being are foundational to an individual’s ability to overcome barriers and achieve success,” said Dr. David Callender, President & CEO of Memorial Hermann. “Health equity is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to leading the discovery and implementation of innovative solutions that will benefit our neighbors here in Houston and in communities across the country.”
A 2022 study estimated that $320 billion is spent annually to address the effects of health inequities in the U.S. If we do nothing to address this crisis, that cost could increase to more than $1 trillion and exacerbate the current challenges in affordability, quality and access to care.
“As one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., Houston is an ideal location to study and further innovative solutions to our nation’s complex health equity crisis,” said Dr. Toi Harris, senior vice president and chief equity, diversity and inclusion officer for Memorial Hermann, who serves as the executive director of the institute. “Social determinants of health are the factors beyond medical services that influence an individual’s health and well-being, and which impact the health of every resident of the Greater Houston area.”
Social determinants of health are factors outside of our hospital and clinic walls that influence an individual’s health, such as education, income, community safety, air and water quality, and access to care.
For more information about the Institute or to inquire about opportunities to partner with us on research initiatives, please contact EDI@memorialhermann.org.