Rev. Dr. Ann Marie Bentsi-Addison

Rev. Dr. Ann Marie Bentsi-Addison is the Executive Director of the International Health Commission. She has served in this role since her election in August 2024. She is also the Pastor of Union AME Church in Warwick, NY.  She is a staunch advocate for BIPOC, particularly their reproductive justice. She has presented various workshops on Reproductive Healthcare and Reproductive Justice nationally and internationally. She is also the Sr. Director of Faith-Based Initiatives for the New York City Health and Hospital System. In this role, she was instrumental in the systemwide introduction of the “Introduction to Hospital Chaplaincy Program”, and citywide collaborations with the DOHMH and the NYC Office of Faith-based and Community Partnerships in the provision of education regarding community-specific health needs, with a plan of corrective action. She is currently initiating a Clinical Pastoral Education program at one of the hospitals she oversees.

Dr. Ann Marie Pic

She started her career as a registered nurse in the Neonatal ICU. She transitioned from there to the practice of Midwifery. She has 20+ years of administrative experience from her tenure as Director of Patient Service and Operations for a major Reproductive Health Center, founding administrator for a hospital-affiliated Women’s Health Service, and Director of Women’s Health Services.

She has attained her Doctorate in Ministry in Social and Environmental Justice from The Interdenominational Theological Center, a Master of Divinity from New Brunswick Theological Seminary, and a Master in Nursing with a postmaster certificate in Midwifery from SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn. She is also a Certified Midwife, Surgical First Assistant, and an Adult Health Clinical Nurse Specialist. She also holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification and a Certificate of Completion in Executive Leadership for Nonprofit Organizations. She is passionate about the health and wellness of the BIPOC community and is committed to providing the information and access necessary to decrease health inequity and facilitate transformative change in our Zion.

1. What is your understanding of the history of the AMEC Health Commission in the AME Church?

The International Health Commission was found to provide health care to the attendees at the General Conference. Initially, the First Aid Stations were operated by the Red Cross and volunteer nurses and doctors. The 4th Episcopal district were instrumental in moving the concept forward with the introduction of  bill in 1947. This bill allowed it to be included in the Doctrine and Discipline until legislation was passed in 1992.  From 1948 to 2016, the First Aide Station paradigm was the model of healthcare provided by the IHC. However, in 2016, the focus became a wellness paradigm. With our ever-expanding partnerships with healthcare institutions, attendees were screened and referred to EDs and Urgent Cares for further treatment. Most notably, from 1996 to present, Rev. Dr. Miriam Burnett has been at the forefront of the Health Commission. She has been a pivotal contributor to the work and the growth of the team. The IHC serves as a primary point of contact for those within the AME church, and other denominations, as a resource for evidence-based education through webinars, workshop or consultants. It continues to provide wellness and first-aid assistance on all levels.

2. As someone who participated in the creation of the new bylaws and structure, what is your understanding of the usefulness of the proposed change?

There were several changes made to the bylaws and structure. The reorganization of the job descriptions for the Executive and Medical Directors provides more clarity in the organization and distribution of work. It also provides the Medical Director the opportunity to collaborate with global Health entities such as WHO, and the CDC. In addition, term limits allow for a succession plan. Seasons leaders will still be present to guide those new to the position, such that they will be less of a void when one with “all the knowledge” steps away.

3. What is the biggest challenge facing the Health Commission now, and how do you propose to face it?

I believe that the biggest challenge facing the Health Commission continues to be lack of resources. The IHC serves an aging church of whom are the most oppressed and marginalized members of society. The goal of the IHC has always been to increase the level of wellness in our community. Resources in the way of finances as well as manpower is always needed. The IHC has been instrumental in identifying  major portions of our budget. It is my goal to continue this significant assignment by using my knowledge and contact with city-government structures to identify local, national and international supporters of faith-based work. 

 

I would also propose a greater collaboration with our Social Action Committee to address health justice. Continuing our educational efforts through in person and virtual workshops, trainings and health fairs to train our communities on the roles of laws, policies, and institutions  in creating, perpetuating and dismantling subordination in health care and access. Collectively, we can empower our communities so vastly affected by health inequities, decrease or inadequate access and unhealthy living conditions, to recognize and build the power to  create and sustain conditions that support health and justice.

 

The leadership of the IHC during the COVID pandemic has truly positioned us as sound voices for the AME church. As the spotlight is upon us, it’s time to move us forward.