During the Utah County Commission meeting on May 3, 2023, a significant discussion emerged regarding the language used in a health equity contract. A commissioner raised concerns about the implications of the term "health equity," suggesting that it could mislead the public by linking health disparities solely to a history of racism in healthcare access.

The commissioner argued that while individual instances of racism exist, attributing the broader issue of health disparities to a "racist history" is misleading. They emphasized that the focus should be on improving health access for all residents, regardless of their background. To clarify this intent, the commissioner proposed an amendment to the contract title, suggesting the addition of "health access" in brackets after "health equity." This change aims to highlight the goal of providing equitable healthcare access rather than perpetuating a narrative centered on historical injustices.

The discussion reflects a broader concern about how language in public contracts can shape perceptions and policy. By advocating for this amendment, the commissioner seeks to ensure that the county's commitment to health access is clear and inclusive, addressing the needs of all community members.

This proposal will be considered further as the county continues to navigate the complexities of health equity and access in its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services for its residents.