The state of Missouri has made significant efforts in eliminating racial and ethnic disparities in health care.  One key way is by establishing the Office of Minority Health within the Department of Health and Senior Services.1  The Department of Health and Senior Services must compile and issue public health related reports, which must specifically include information on the health of African Americans and other minority groups within the state.2

        In addition, the Department has established the Commission on Minority Older Individuals, which is to identify specific health needs of older, minority individuals, including specific diseases or conditions they are at risk for, recommend government services to assist this population, and recommend program improvements to address the special needs of the population.3