2 minute read
TAKE 5: Health outreach with Fawn Rhodes
TAKE 5
by LYNDA VAN KUREN photo by TERAH HOOBLER
As Wilmington’s first public health equity coordinator, FAWN RHODES is blazing a new path in the city’s health care. She is tackling the area’s most urgent health care issues for marginalized populations. Rhodes’ background makes her particularly well-suited for the position. In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in behavioral and social sciences from North Carolina Central University, Rhodes connects to the people she helps on a personal level. As a former struggling single mother, Rhodes says she has “walked in their shoes.” Also, Rhodes, who is a Wilmington native, has deep ties to the community. These factors give her a unique understanding of and compassion for those she serves.
WHAT POPULATIONS EXPERIENCE HEALTH INEQUITY IN OUR AREA? “So many people have health inequity and disparity. There are a lot of marginalized populations, everyone from black and brown populations, veterans, the disabled, seniors, and the queer community.” WHAT ARE THE MAJOR HEALTH ISSUES FACING NEW HANOVER COUNTY? “COVID and monkeypox. However, now that we are not on red alert, we are also addressing issues specific to our county. Housing is a major issue in our area. When you think about health, you must address food, shelter, safety, and security first. Get people stable, then we can address the disease.” DO YOU WORK WITH INDIVIDUALS OR GROUPS OF PEOPLE TO ENSURE THEY GET THE HEALTH CARE THEY NEED? “Sometimes, I deal with an individual, and sometimes I deal with a group. It’s a case-by-case situation.” WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR REDUCING HEALTH INEQUITIES IN THE COUNTY? “Within five years I hope to have reduced health inequities and disparities by 10%. Other key areas I want to work on are food insecurities for our black and brown communities and getting seniors access to care. We have to go into seniors’ actual space. Often the reason boomers don’t get care isn’t transportation. It’s shame, so we need to knock on their doors and build trust.” WHY IS THIS JOB IMPORTANT TO YOU? “Once I made a connection with the families, I realized this is where I want to be. There is nothing like doing work in your own backyard, making a difference, and helping people who know you and your family.” W
