Speech #1100067123

I stand today to pay tribute to and show appreciation for the Caribbean American Medical and Scientific Association. CAMSA. and to enter into the RECORD an article from CaribNews entitled "Saying Thanks and Recognizing the Contribution." Health care is an integral component of our Nations wellbeing. yet many communities are left without the resources to access that care or receive health services that are not compatible with their cultural needs. CAMSA is on the cutting edge of health care delivery. providing culturally competent research and solutions concemning Caribbeans who have emigrated to the United States. CAMSA is creating significant professional alliances with nonCaribbean American health protessionals. developing skills and strategies to better provide resources to their communities in both the United States and Caribbean nations. I value CAMSAs contribution at a time when policy makers and health professionals are seeking ways to deliver health care and culturally relevant social services to communities that disproportionately bear the burden of disease yet lack the health care they need.