What is the definition of health equity?

Health equity

Health disparities arise when certain groups or communities face systematic disadvantages in health compared to others. These disparities can be based on various factors, including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, age, disability, geographic location, and more. For example, people from lower-income communities may have limited access to quality healthcare facilities, nutritious food, safe housing, and education, leading to poorer health outcomes compared to those from more affluent backgrounds.

Health equity aims to identify and address these disparities by advocating for policies and practices that promote fair distribution of resources, equal access to healthcare services, and opportunities for better health outcomes for everyone, regardless of their background or identity. Achieving health equity involves collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, healthcare providers, public health organizations, community groups, and individuals.

To work towards health equity, strategies may include increasing access to healthcare services in underserved areas, implementing policies to reduce income and education-related health disparities, promoting culturally competent healthcare, improving health literacy, and addressing the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

Health equity is not just a matter of individual responsibility; it requires collective efforts and societal change to create a fair and just healthcare system that benefits all members of society equally.