Organizations to Reduce, Advance, and Lead for Equity (ORALE) Against COVID-19

Background: The goal of this study was to decrease disparities in the morbidity and mortality patterns for COVID-19 through engaged partnerships with several communities in central California that were historically underserved and vulnerable to COVID-19, in particular the Latinx community. Materials/Methods: The methodology included epidemiology of COVID-19 infections, COVID-19 related mortality, and SARS-CoV-2 testing rates in selected Latinx and white non-Latinx communities of targeted California counties. The study also developed strategies to increase testing and reduce rates of infection in collaboration with community partners, and to disseminate information and knowledge gained back to the communities. Outcome/Impact: The outcomes of this study set a firm foundation for subsequent research on COVID-19 and health disparities, and helped to prepare communities to meet the challenges of future public health crises.