Each year since 2022, University of Vermont Health and University of Vermont bring together clinicians, students, community leaders, educators, artists and advocates for the annual Health Equity Summit — a gathering focused on advancing equitable, person-centered care across Vermont and northern New York.

In this episode we explore what health equity truly means, why it matters, and how it shows up in homes, hospitals, classrooms and communities. Hear from Summit organizers Taylor Small of UVM Medical Center and Hajar Anvar of UVM Health - Home Health and Hospice about the summit’s evolving vision and the growing role of community voices, patient advisors and diverse partners in shaping solutions.

You’ll also hear powerful stories from Burlington-based artist and storyteller Ferene Paris, who is using creativity to support healing and learning; executive assistant Elle Semsey, who is channeling her lived experience as a survivor of intimate partner violence into action; and Dr. Jill Rinehart, a pediatrician at Golisano Children’s Hospital at UVM Health working to eliminate care disparities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

From the role social determinants of health play, to the importance of cultural humility, lived experience and patient-centered design, we offer a deeply human look at what it takes to build health care systems — and relationships — that allow everyone the opportunity to reach their highest level of health.

Resources

• Submit a Proposal for the 2026 Health Equity Summit
• Share your work at the 2026 Summit (exhibitor opportunities)
• UVM Health Health Equity Summit Information

About Living Healthy Together

Each week we share stories, advice and insights from those closest to care in Vermont and northern New York while exploring the local and national issues shaping health care. Catch Living Healthy Together live airing on Radio Vermont's WDEV Fridays at 1 pm.

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