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Healthcare Equity Struggles
Summary
Healthcare is progressively considered more than just physical health; mental and behavioral health as well as social determinants of health are increasingly being considered. This change is contributing to the rise in focus on healthcare inequity. Other factors in the world are also contributing to the strain on poorly functioning healthcare systems. Urbanization, migration, and climate change are increasing our vulnerability to disease incidence and range. Aging populations are benefiting from health tech but are simultaneously contributing to the health system’s strain. Health technology can help some problems but only insofar as to how intentionally, with long-term thought, it has been implemented. The existing systemic issues hamper much of the effectiveness of current and innovative solutions, the effects of which are amplified in resource constrained areas.
The Covid-19 Pandemic highlighted inequities and shortcomings throughout regional and global healthcare systems. Western health is prioritized through both intention and existing systemic limitations (infrastructure, supply chain, access, finances, etc.). Though the damage to Western/developed economies would arguably have larger economic impacts globally, not delivering equitable health globally care can increase the vulnerability of everyone’s health.
The general consensus is that current approaches to managing health needs are failing to meet the task adequately. Over the last three years we have seen how reactive approaches to complex health needs and “limited capability in preventative strategies” has negatively impacted our lives. We need agility and flexibility from the system and individual parts of healthcare.