At AfroTech 2024, the Black Legislative Leaders Network (BLLN) convened a groundbreaking policy roundtable to explore how technology can help close systemic health disparities in underserved communities. With support from Linda Wilson, Fund II Foundation, Qualtrics, and Texas Southern University, the discussion reinforced AfroTech’s evolution into not just a conference but also a catalyst for innovation and action.
As one of the largest gatherings of Black technologists and entrepreneurs, AfroTech is more than a space for networking; it’s a movement driving tangible change. With over 37,000 attendees, the 2024 event reinforced the power of collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators in tackling critical issues at the intersection of technology and equity. The BLLN’s inaugural roundtable embodied this mission, uniting legislative leaders and tech innovators to drive real policy changes in healthcare.
Technology as a Tool for Health Equity
Despite significant medical advancements, racial and socioeconomic health disparities persist, particularly in urban and rural communities. The BLLN roundtable explored how health information technology (HIT) can transform healthcare by expanding access, improving patient engagement, enhancing clinical decision-making, and reducing mortality risks through data-driven early detection and prevention efforts. These conversations reinforced that technology alone is not a solution. Collaborative efforts between legislators, healthcare providers, and tech innovators are essential to driving meaningful and lasting change.
Health-tech startups are playing a vital role in reshaping healthcare, particularly for communities most impacted by disparities. Two standout AI-driven mobile health apps were showcased for their role in increasing patient outcomes and bridging healthcare gaps: Birth By Us and #IrthApp. Birth By Us is a digital health platform focused on improving maternal care and outcomes for Black people by providing tailored resources and support. #IrthApp, a community-driven platform, combats bias in maternal healthcare by allowing Black and Brown parents to review and rate their birthing experiences, helping others find equitable care. Their work underscores the power of technology in amplifying patient voices and fostering systemic change.
Legislators Driving the Conversation
The roundtable was comprised of policymakers who hold leadership in their respective state capitols, and who are committed to leveraging technology to address health equity. The leadership and expertise underscore the importance of legislative action in leveraging technology to advance healthcare access, improve patient outcomes, and reduce disparities. The following legislative leaders spearheaded this conversation:
Sen. Tonya P. Anderson (GA)
Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (IL)
Rep. Willie Preston (IL)
Rep. Cherrish S. Pryor (IN)
Rep. Amos O’Neal (MI)
Rep. Daryl Porter (MI)
Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (NY)
Rep. Karen Camper (TN)
Rep. Jolanda Jones (TX)
Rep. Ron Reynolds (TX)
Rep. Toni Rose (TX)
Rep. Jamila E. Taylor (WA)
Next Steps: From Policy to Action
The Black Legislative Leaders Network remains committed to ensuring that discussions lead to tangible change. Expanding access to telehealth in underserved communities, advocating for investment in mobile health infrastructure and AI-driven solutions, and advancing policies that foster digital inclusion and health literacy remain top priorities.
Technology is a powerful tool for closing health disparities, but its success depends on continued collaboration between policymakers, innovators, and the communities they serve. App Association members are leveraging technology to solve real-world problems, and it is important that they have the ability to innovate at their fullest capacity. AfroTech 2024 reaffirmed that real progress happens when leadership, vision, and technology align. And the work is far from over. As the Black Legislative Leaders Network and its partners continue to advance this mission, one message remains clear: health equity is within reach – if we commit to building it and fostering an environment where small tech companies can innovate and thrive.