Our focus on reducing disparities led to a partnership with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. A gap in care with our Somali patient population was discovered after reviewing numbers for colorectal and breast cancer screenings, pediatric immunizations and diabetes. In the Season 4 finale, two HealthPartners colleagues, family nurse practitioner Munira MaalimIsaq and senior project manager Greg Fedio, share how the Equity Action Lab project helped assess and better understand the gaps and determine steps for changes.

"Off the Charts" returns June 11.

Hosts: Kari Haley, MD, and Steven Jackson, MD

Guests: Munira MaalimIsaq, FNP; and Greg Fedio

HealthPartners website: Off the Charts podcast

Got an idea? Have thoughts to share? We want to hear from you. Email us at offthecharts@healthpartners.com.

HealthPartners created myGenetics, a community health research program in partnership with Helix, because DNA can tell people about their health and may hold the key to understanding certain health risk factors.

Deenya Craig, a HealthPartners patient with a family history of cancer, started having irregular mammograms in her mid-30s and knew DNA testing existed. Through myGenetics, she found out she carries the BRCA2 gene mutation that brings a greater risk of breast and ovarian cancers. She’s now a health advocate and encouraged her family to get checked.

Hosts: Kari Haley, MD, and Steven Jackson, MD

Guest: Deenya Craig

HealthPartners website: Off the Charts podcast

The playing field isn’t always level when it comes to youth sports. Access for kids and communities often depends on whether parents and families can afford the costs connected to teams, training and travel. Lea B. Olsen, a former college athlete with a career in sports, shares her how she found competitive basketball as a kid growing up in South Minneapolis. She talks about how the youth sports model has changed and anxiety’s impact on today’s young athletes.

Hosts: Kari Haley, MD, and Steven Jackson, MD

Guest: Lea B. Olsen

HealthPartners website: Off the Charts podcast