Connecticut filmmaker Crystal Emery debuts a new documentary this week that looks at the role of racism in United States health care.

Emery has been called "one of the most dynamic filmmakers to come along in decades."

The film documentary "The Deadliest Disease in America" examines the role of racism in health care and offers an unsparing examination, through the eyes of patients and health care professionals, of what they describe as "fundamental inequities" in the system.

"Racism is not always overt. It can be very subtle. It can be how you're treated," Emery says.

Emery, who is quadriplegic, produced and directed the film over the course of a decade.

She says her goal "is to bring greater awareness to disparities in the American healthcare system due to racism -- and to start a wider conversation about the so that true change can be made."

"We then have to take action. And what does the action look like? It looks like you. It starts with the individual because individuals make institutions," Emery says.

Emery, who is known for her warm personality, says she's proud to bring to the table experience as an author, STEM and health care advocate.

"I really don't like the word disabled, because there's nothing 'dis' about me. But I am 'differently-abled,'" she says.

Emery is a filmmaker with an uncontainable spirit, asking tough questions about "the disease" of racism and hopes her candor will help contribute to a cure.

"What we are doing with the film is opening people's eyes just a little bit more so that we touch their heart," she says.

"The Deadliest Disease in America" premieres Friday at Cinema Village in New York City.