Bridging the gap, local pharmacist tackles diabetes disparities in Hispanic community

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As 8News celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, it's a time to shine a light on the health challenges that disproportionately affect this community, including type 2 diabetes.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, you can find Dr. John Bucheit, a VCU pharmacist, at the Crossover Healthcare Ministry, helping people manage their diabetes medication.

"Type 2 diabetes is a progressive decrease in insulin secretion over time. Insulin is essential for managing our sugar and our glucose levels in our blood," Bucheit explained. "We're seeing that the prevalence of diabetes is really rising. The costs associated with diabetes are high, and patients need access."

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

Bucheit's work is critical, as volunteers provide care to thousands of uninsured patients across two clinics in Richmond and Henrico. He says he’s helping someone who speaks Spanish almost 90% of the time at the Richmond clinic, highlighting one of the primary challenges his patients face.

"The language barrier can be really challenging. And so this is where we really need certified medical interpreters to help our patients and our clinicians communicate effectively with patients," Bucheit said.

Beyond language, other challenges include genetics, high rates of obesity, cultural barriers and the difficulty of navigating a complex healthcare system without insurance.

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

According to the Virginia Department of Health, the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes in Virginia's Hispanic population stands at 6.2%, which is lower than the overall national average of 11.1%. Yet, nationwide, Hispanic Americans are disproportionately affected, and the data points to systemic challenges.

"When you [consider] a lack of insurance, the communication barriers... It's challenging," Bucheit said. "So it requires a lot of education on, not only, 'we have this medication' or 'we have these resources for you,' [but] how do you utilize these resources?"

As the prevalence of diabetes continues to rise, Bucheit says their focus is on improving care by preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

(Photo: Paul Nevadomski, 8News)

"Here at VCU, we are trying to prepare students to practice with patients with diverse cultures and needs. So early in the curriculum, we start talking about how to communicate with patients who speak different languages," he said.

Despite the challenges, there is a strong desire for improved health within the community.

"The Hispanic patients I work with really care about their health. They're engaged. They want to do better. They want the opportunity to have a healthy lifestyle," Bucheit said. "They just need a little extra help sometimes from the healthcare team."