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Explain TWO factors that contribute to health inequities in different population groups - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 33 - 2013 - Paper 1
Question 33
Explain TWO factors that contribute to health inequities in different population groups. How can the social justice framework be applied to address the causal facto... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain TWO factors that contribute to health inequities in different population groups - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 33 - 2013 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain TWO factors that contribute to health inequities in different population groups.
Answer
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Socioeconomic Status (SES): Socioeconomic status profoundly impacts health outcomes. Individuals from lower SES backgrounds often face barriers such as inadequate access to healthcare, unhealthy living conditions, and limited educational opportunities. These factors contribute to poorer health outcomes and a higher prevalence of chronic diseases. For example, low-income individuals may live in areas with limited access to fresh food, leading to poor diet and related health issues.
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Access to Healthcare Services: Access to quality healthcare is critical for health equity. Populations in remote or rural areas may have fewer healthcare facilities, resulting in delayed or missed health interventions. This disparity can lead to the exacerbation of health conditions that could have been managed or treated effectively if timely care had been available. For instance, people living in isolated regions may struggle to receive preventive care, leading to higher incidences of diseases that could have been addressed early.
Step 2
How can the social justice framework be applied to address the causal factors of health inequities?
Answer
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Empowerment of Disadvantaged Communities: The social justice framework emphasizes the importance of empowering communities to take charge of their health. This can involve increasing community engagement in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard regarding health services and policies that affect them. Programs that provide resources for self-advocacy and community organizing can improve health literacy and outcomes.
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Policy Advocacy and Reform: Advocating for policies that promote health equity is a critical aspect of using the social justice framework. This includes pushing for legislative changes that address income inequality, housing condition standards, and equitable access to healthcare services. For example, initiatives that support universal healthcare can help bridge the gaps in access faced by marginalized communities.
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Holistic Health Programs: Implementing holistic health programs that consider social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and employment, is essential. Programs that integrate mental health and social support services can lead to more comprehensive care models that recognize and address the multifaceted nature of health inequities.