Healthcare access has been a significant issue in Black history, with systemic racism and discrimination playing a major role in disparities in healthcare services and outcomes.

During slavery and segregation, Black individuals were often denied access to medical care and faced discrimination in healthcare settings. Many were subjected to unethical medical experiments without their consent, such as the infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Study where Black men were denied treatment for syphilis in order to study the progression of the disease.

Even after legal segregation ended, disparities in healthcare access persisted. Black communities often faced barriers such as lack of insurance, limited access to quality healthcare facilities, and implicit bias from healthcare providers. These factors contributed to higher rates of chronic illnesses, maternal mortality, and other health disparities among Black Americans.

Efforts to address these disparities have been ongoing, with organizations and advocates working to improve access to healthcare for Black communities. Initiatives such as the Affordable Care Act have expanded access to health insurance coverage, while community health centers and programs focused on cultural competency and addressing social determinants of health have sought to improve healthcare outcomes for Black Americans.

Despite these efforts, disparities in healthcare access and outcomes persist, highlighting the need for continued advocacy, policy changes, and education to ensure that all individuals have equal access to quality healthcare regardless of their race or background.