With so much structural change happening in the world right now, it’s easy to be uncertain and weary. It also means adapting to broaden the scope of individuals who have historically been left behind by the innovations and advances of modern medicine. In this sense, Heather McGhee’s book, The Sum of Us: What racism costs everyone and how we can prosper together, addresses what it means make sure health care includes everyone.

We spoke about how structural inequities have held back advances in the medical system, why racism still impacts systems like health care today, and what professionals in the medical field can do to find success while reducing disparities and improving equity in care.