Health disparities represent a significant challenge in the pursuit of equitable health care. These preventable differences in health outcomes are often rooted in social and economic disadvantages and are primarily observed among racial and ethnic minority populations, as well as individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

However, the factors that contribute to these disparities extend far beyond mere demographics. Geographic location, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, mental health conditions, and spiritual beliefs can all exacerbate health disparities.¹

The role of social determinants of health

Health outcomes are shaped significantly by socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioral factors, collectively known as social determinants of health (SDOH). Recognizing and addressing SDOH is critical for providers striving to eliminate disparities and improve patient outcomes. By identifying the barriers that affect health, providers can foster an environment of empathy and understanding, which are vital for building trust and encouraging patient engagement.

The importance of personalized care

As patient populations have become increasingly diverse, delivering personalized care requires thoughtful consideration, adaptability, and flexibility. Culturally responsive care goes beyond addressing specific health needs associated with race, ethnicity, and/or socioeconomic status. It also involves understanding the unique factors that impact each patient’s experience within the health care system.

Resources for culturally competent care

The good news is that there are resources at your disposal that can help bridge cultural differences, enhance personalized care, and ultimately drive better health outcomes for your patients. The Cigna Group^® offers a variety of tools designed to support health care providers and their diverse patient populations.

Preventive care hub. Designed to engage patients from communities that may face a higher risk for diabetes, cancer, and other health conditions, our new “Let’s Talk Preventive Care” website is a centralized, easy-to-navigate resource you can share with your patients and their caregivers. It includes practical, culturally responsive content to help patients better understand preventive care services and screenings, strengthen health literacy, and empower informed decision-making around condition management.

Health disparity resources. Our educational resources can help your practice to address health disparities among specific patient populations.

• African American/Black Health Disparities.
• South Asian Health Disparities.
• Hispanic and Latino Health Disparities.
• LGBTQ+ Health Disparities.

SDOH resources. Being able to identify and address SDOH can help close gaps due to health disparities and support your practice in providing culturally responsive care. Key resources include:

• Social Determinants of Health (Healthy People 2030): Learn about SDOH and how they contribute to health disparities.
• Addressing Social Determinants of Health Within Your Practice: Explore ways to identify and mitigate non-medical influences on your patients’ health.  
• Cigna Healthcare community resources via FindHelp.com: Find local programs providing vital services, such as free or low-cost housing, food, education, and transportation services.
• National patient resources: Identify resources that can help to enhance your patients’ focus on health and well-being.

Language and accessibility services. As a network-participating provider, we offer access to the following language assistance services at discounted rates to support your communication with patients with Evernorth^® Behavioral Health coverage:

• Bilingual proficiency testing for your clinical and administrative staff.
• Written translation services.
• Verbal and American Sign Language interpreters through telephonic, face-to-face, and video remote options.

Our network-participating providers can access these discounts through our negotiated contracts with professional language assistance vendors. Your office works directly with these vendors to schedule and pay for services.

For providers in California, our California Language Assistance Program provides free interpreter services and translations of our vital standard and non-standard documents to Evernorth Behavioral Health customers living in California.

Cultural competency education. Sharpen your cultural competency skills with the Cultural and Linguistic Competence Health Practitioner Assessment, a self-guided learning tool.

Additional information

Please visit our Cultural Competency and Health Equity web page.

1. National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. “What Are Health Disparities?” National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. 25 February 2026. Retrieved from https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/about/what-are-health-disparities.