Inequities in health or disparities in health can affect a whole community. These are usually caused by environmental, social and economic factors. Some of these factors include discrimination, poverty, lack access to health care, or unhealthy living conditions. Certain populations are more affected by health inequities than others. These include racial or ethnic minorities, individuals with low incomes, and people living in communities that lack adequate healthcare.
Primary community resources, as well primary prevention resources, must be identified to effectively address any health issue in a given community. Healthcare facilities, community clinics, social service agencies, and public health departments can be considered primary community resources. The primary prevention resource can include outreach programs, education campaigns and public health initiatives aimed at preventing onset.
In order to reduce the severity of the concern, the root causes must be identified and addressed. It is important to identify and address social determinants that are contributing to health concerns, like poverty, insufficient housing and lack of healthy food choices. In addition, programs and policies aimed at decreasing health inequalities and disparities, like increasing access to community resources and healthcare services, can be implemented.
Conclusion: To address health concerns in a particular community requires an integrated approach. This includes a thorough analysis of the causes and solutions, the resources available in the locality, the prevention methods, the resources that have been implemented, etc. Healthcare providers and leaders in the community can improve health outcomes by addressing social determinants and working to eliminate health disparities.