ABFMP Presents
The Black Family Physician Green Book
The Association of Black Family Medicine Physicians is proud to introduce one of our newest initiatives:
The Black Physician Greenbook
Rooted in the historical resource of the same name, this greenbook aims to provide Black patients with the direct contact information of Black family physicians who are dedicated to their safety, wellbeing, and holistic care. The ABFMP Black Physician Greenbook is not an exhaustive resources nor is it an endorsement by our organization for the clinicians listed here -- please research, choose carefully and use your own discretion.
It is our sincere hope that you not only find what you are looking for in this resource, but also spread the word to your loved ones and community members for their use as well!
The History
With the help of his wife, Alma, postal employee Victor Green founded the Green Book in Harlem, NY in 1936. The publication initially focused on businesses in Harlem that were receptive and welcoming to Black patronage, but it soon blossomed to encompass the entire U.S. By 1962, the Green Book had a circulation of over 2 million nationwide and covered businesses across fields, including but not limited to lodging, restaurants, hairdressers, liquor and spirits stores, tailors, and gas stations. This revolutionary text transformed life for Black Americans across the U.S. who had been subjected to the horrors of post-Reconstruction era sundown town laws, Jim Crow and segregation. During a time when being Black in America meant merely surviving, the Green Book offered opportunities for health, wellness, pleasure and ultimately, the ability to thrive in leisure.
Reference: https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/the-green-book-an-historic-context.htm
Our Why
The ABFMP has initiated this project because it is critical to the health and wellbeing of the patients we serve every single day. Research has shown that patients have better clinical outcomes when they are cared for by providers that they are aligned with, especially as it relates to race, ethnicity and cultural background. We are firm believers that this directory is an extension of the evidence-based medicine that we rely on every single day.
As Black family physicians, we are intimately aware of our necessity in treating us. It is an honor to offer a caring hand of partnership to our patients and provide compassionate care that is rooted in our shared experience in this country and world.
Even more, as our name implies, we are committed to keeping the work of Mr. and Mrs. Green alive in providing our community with the resources necessary to not only survive but thrive in an environment that more often opposes this goal. We aim to use our platform and access to ensure that we close the healthcare gap for Black patients and Black providers, one directory entry at a time.
The ABFMP Black Physician Green Book
Contribute to the Green Book
Do you know of a Black physician who should be included in our Green Book? Please let us know by completing the form below -- this project is for us, by us. We can't do it without you!