After consulting with several Africans American health providers, I am convinced that a major change must take place in the general attitude of Black folk about their health care. All indication show that health disparities will not cease until we ask more questions, be more informed, and be willing to deal with reality by using good judgment. Choose your physician wisely because he or she will guide you through what can be a complicated maze of “medical highways”. Make sure you have someone that has your best interest at heart and whom you have confidence. Treat your health care like you treat your best outfit, shoes or prized possession. Don’t take health advice from non-professionals. Many health care dilemmas that Black folk find them selves in come as a result of getting incomplete data, out dated information or just bad advice. Our own unwillingness to take good advice is also a major barrier. Consider a second opinion if you must. When complex problems have simple solutions it is usually wrong. I am Dr. Thaddeus John Bell--- Closing the Gap in Health Care. 3/14/06