Courtney Lang to Lead Discussions on Equitable Data Standards at NMQF Summit 2026
Courtney Lang to Moderate Key Session at 2026 NMQF Leadership Summit
Courtney Lang, JD, the founder and principal of Langco + Partners, is set to play a pivotal role during the 2026 National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) Leadership Summit. Scheduled for April 27th at 4 PM, she will moderate a crucial panel titled "State Data Disaggregation: Implementing SPD 15 to Improve Equitable Health Outcomes." This session is part of a broader summit theme focused on advancing community-centered care through environment-sensitive standards.
The panel objectives revolve around the latest updates to Statistical Policy Directive No. 15 (SPD 15), the federal minimum standard for race and ethnicity data collection. Lang and the panel will explore how adopting these federal guidelines can greatly improve data representation and quality in health analytics.
"Accurate and comprehensive data is essential for enhancing health outcomes," said Lang, emphasizing the need for states to prioritize data disaggregation. This, she argues, will help in better understanding community needs and addressing disparities with greater efficacy.
In an era of increasing awareness about social determinants of health, the discussion will encompass advocacy priorities that acknowledge the significance of intersectionality in advancing equitable health outcomes. Gary A. Puckrein, PhD, NMQF's President and CEO, adds, "Modernizing our demographic data collection methods is not merely a technical task; it's foundational for a functional healthcare system that caters effectively to diverse populations."
This year's Leadership Summit will convene policymakers, healthcare leaders, researchers, and advocates to tackle pressing issues in health quality and outcomes. The session led by Lang promises to provide actionable insights and real-world examples, aiming for broader implementation of enhanced data disaggregation standards across the nation.
The NMQF, founded in 1998, is dedicated to reducing patient risk and promoting health equity via informed care strategies. Their mission underscores the importance of aligning healthcare practices with biological realities to ensure quality treatment for vulnerable populations. Their work combines research and data to support a wide range of stakeholders in achieving better health outcomes.
For attendees, the session represents a unique opportunity to gain insights into effective data practices that can lead to significant improvements in healthcare delivery and equity. Understanding how to translate data into actionable strategies will be key to dismantling long-standing barriers in health access.
To learn more about the 2026 NMQF Leadership Summit, please visit their official website. The event promises to be an essential gathering for those invested in advancing health equity through informed policy and data practices.
About Langco + Partners
Langco + Partners is a public affairs firm dedicated to health justice, representing a diverse array of stakeholders. They focus on uniting multi-disciplinary leaders and mobilizing health advocates to push for equitable healthcare solutions. For more information, visit their website at www.langcopartners.com.
About the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF)
The NMQF is a research and advocacy organization aimed at promoting health equity and reducing healthcare disparities. By utilizing data to empower healthcare leaders and policymakers, they strive to ensure optimal care for all, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. Visit www.nmqf.org for more details.