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Outline and explain two ways in which health professionals may affect social class inequalities in health and illness. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 2
Question 7
Outline and explain two ways in which health professionals may affect social class inequalities in health and illness.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two ways in which health professionals may affect social class inequalities in health and illness. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 2
Step 1
1. Middle-class patients can afford private healthcare
Answer
Health professionals may contribute to social class inequalities by providing preferential treatment to middle-class patients who can afford private healthcare. This results in higher-quality services, quicker access to treatments, and better health outcomes for these patients compared to their working-class counterparts who may rely solely on public healthcare. Additionally, the resources available for private treatments often allow for more comprehensive healthcare options, thus widening the gap in health outcomes across different social classes.
Step 2
2. Language and education barriers for working-class patients
Answer
Another way health professionals affect inequalities is through their communication styles, which may unintentionally favor educated, middle-class patients. Health professionals often use medical jargon that can confuse working-class patients, who may not have the same level of education. This barrier can lead to misdiagnoses or inappropriate treatments, further exacerbating health inequalities. In contrast, middle-class patients might better navigate the healthcare system due to their familiarity with medical terminology and stronger advocacy skills.