“Who’s in CHARGE?” spotlights a member of the AAMC Collaborative for Health Equity: Act, Research, Generate Evidence (CHARGE), a forum for investigators, clinicians, and community partners who design and implement research and policies that eliminate health and health care inequities. Today, we’re featuring Saleh Rahman, MD, PhD, MPH, associate dean for equity, inclusion, and diversity at the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac University, in North Haven, Connecticut. Connect with Saleh on LinkedIn.
What sparked your interest in health equity work?
I have many experiences to which I can attribute my interest in health equity. In the late ’90s, I conducted one of my first studies with the Colorado Mammography Project, one of the largest data surveillance systems in the U.S. In this study, I examined zip codes as a proxy measure of health outcomes, inspired by the idea of the Beverly Hills 90210 TV series. I also coined the term "Community Economic Status” (CES) to study further median income per zip code and its relationship with other factors, such as transportation per household and geographical impediments to health care access. I researched many social determinants and found them directly associated with poor health outcomes in these marginalized populations.
Physicians are natural advocates for marginalized people. I taught comparative health system analysis and saw that the U.S. has the world’s highest GDP expenditure on health. However, we are not at the top in health parameters. I see a clear relationship between our system’s social determinants and injustices.
Why does health equity matter?
Health should be considered a human right. There is no point in having other rights if we do not live and have the health to enjoy those rights. Health equity matters because it ensures everyone has fair and just opportunities to achieve their highest health potential, regardless of social, economic, demographic, or geographic factors. Health equity is a moral and ethical responsibility for all. It improves health outcomes, creates social stability, increases quality of life, and has economic benefits. If we could provide training in health equity and compassion to our future physicians, that would significantly impact our lives and the lives of generations to come. If we could convey this message and advocate to our policymakers, that would impact the nation’s health and future generations.
What health equity project are you most proud of or excited about?
My MD students and I analyzed statewide data of 26,000 patients hospitalized in Florida ICUs with COVID-19. We examined the relationship of the area’s Distressed Communities Index with health outcomes. The results show a clear dose-response relationship between the community’s health and individual health outcomes. I am applying this method to other diseases and conditions.
Who are your health equity heroes?
I have many heroes who have inspired me. However, I collectively call all the community-based workers who pointed our attention to health disparities my heroes.
What do you like to do for fun outside of work?
Outside of work, I write and publish fiction, short stories, science fiction, and poetry. My pen name is Sezan Mahmud, and I have published 38 books so far under this name.
You can meet other health equity champions like Saleh in the AAMC CHARGE virtual community. Interested in nominating yourself or a colleague for a future “Who’s in CHARGE?” member spotlight?