Questex’s Fierce Healthcare announced the finalists of their second annual Fierce DEI Awards and L.A. Care Health Plan and ixlayer’s Direct-to-Patient Innovation Program has been selected as a finalist in the Outstanding DEI Initiative in Patient Care. L.A. Care began working with ixlayer in 2023 when they launched the At-Home Diagnostic Program to reduce the screening gaps in preventive colorectal cancer, diabetes and kidney disease among hard-to-reach members.
Addressing unmet care needs with the Direct-to-Patient Innovation Program, ixlayer and L.A. Care mailed out more than 70,000 at-home diagnostic and screening tests to members who were overdue for a screening. All tests came with instructions in each member's preferred language and with prepaid return labels to expedite samples to the correct labs, easily, effectively, and with no cost burden to the member.
Many L.A. County residents, especially those from Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaskan Native communities, face hurdles in accessing healthcare. As a result, they have lower rates of critical screening for colon cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease, all of which occur more frequently and with worse outcomes in these populations. This disparity in diagnosis and treatment highlights the need to close care gaps—not only to enhance individual health but also to bolster community well-being and advance health equity. Moreover, early detection through screenings can significantly improve patient outcomes, reducing both morbidity and mortality.
After implementing ixlayer’s platform, L.A. Care successfully closed 10% of care gaps in year one of the program and nearly doubled that rate in year two, closing 18% gaps in care. These numbers undoubtedly exemplify how technology and equity-focused strategy can come together to drive measurable improvements in public health. The initiative successfully re-engaged some of the hardest-to-reach populations—those traditionally marginalized by systemic barriers in healthcare—with critical screenings for colon cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease.
The Fierce DEI Awards celebrate and recognize outstanding achievements in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within the healthcare industry. This program honors organizations, initiatives, and individuals who are making significant strides in creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare environment. This year’s finalists were judged on: Innovation and Impact, Measurable Outcomes, Sustainability and Scalability, and Ethical and Regulatory Adherence. Fierce DEI Awards winners will be announced on June 18, 2025.
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