Mayor Monroe Nichols launched a new coalition Thursday as part of his effort to improve well-being and address health issues in Tulsa.
The coalition, which Nichols announced in front of 50 health professionals, supports the city’s first ever Office of Health and Wellbeing. It will include local advocates, experts from public universities, elected officials and members of non-profit organizations.
Jabraan Pasha, the city’s chief health officer, told the Flyer Tulsa needs more collaboration to address public health and the coalition’s launch is an example of that.
“We wanted to break down silos and get everyone who touches health care in the same room,” Pasha said. “But, that is only a small piece. The other piece is folks who are impacted by health care.”
That includes people like Aisha Patterson who has lived in Tulsa for 30 years. After being diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30, she’s worn the hat of both a survivor and an advocate. Now, she’s bringing her lived experience to the coalition.
“My perspective is being able to navigate the health system in Oklahoma and also being able to share my experience of using social media to drive change, improve outcomes and educate the public on breast health and other health issues,” Patterson said.
She said if Tulsa wants to see change, it has to be willing to listen to patients.
As for what’s next, the coalition is still in its early stages. Staff will begin meeting as they continue to map out strategy.
“We really wanted to kick things off with this group. There are a lot of people [in here] with passion, leverage and influence. Getting this kicked off was really important,” Pasha said.
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