PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) seeks 10 individuals to sit on the new Health Advocacy and Equity Commission. The Commission will advise Director of Health Michael Fine, MD and other state departments on issues of racial, ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic health disparities.

"It is essential that diverse voices are heard in the development of health policy," said Director Fine. "This Commission will play a key role in developing and facilitating a comprehensive health equity plan that addresses the social determinants of public health."

Social determinants of health encompass a wide range of factors impacting the health of individuals, families and communities. The Health Advocacy and Equity Commission will propose recommendations to address these factors, recommend a plan of action, and perform a bi-annual evaluation of the state's efforts to reduce health disparities by addressing the social determinants of health.

Commissioners will serve a three-year term.

For more information or to submit a letter of interest and resume, contact Rilwan Feyisitan at rilwan.feyisitan@health.ri.gov

Here's the link to the press release inviting public nominations to the Commission: http://www.ri.gov/press/view/17123.  Please feel free to share this with your colleagues and networks