Health disparities are differences in health and in opportunities to achieve optimal health that are connected to disadvantage. This lesson introduces common definitions, explains how disparities affect health, and explores the determinants that shape health outcomes.
Healthy People 2030 defines health disparities as health differences linked to social, economic, and/or environmental disadvantages. The CDC describes them as preventable differences in disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health experienced by socially disadvantaged population groups.
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What is a health disparity?
A group-level health difference linked to social, economic, and/or environmental disadvantage.
Health equity
A fair and just opportunity for everyone to attain their highest level of health.
Social determinants of health
Conditions in which people live, work, learn, and interact with systems that shape health. Healthy People 2030 groups them into economic stability; education; health care access and quality; neighborhood and built environment; and social and community context.
Epigenetics
The study of how behaviors and environmental exposures can affect how genes work.
How did the Affordable Care Act of 2010 expand insurance access?
It expanded affordable insurance options and Medicaid eligibility, protected people with preexisting conditions, and required coverage of essential health benefits.
Quiz questions
Which set lists the four components of health care access identified by AHRQ?Answer: Coverage, services, timeliness, and workforce.
Which strategy is identified as a way to address maternal health disparities?Answer: Extending postpartum health coverage.
What is the purpose of designating 988 as the universal Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number?Answer: To provide a direct connection to crisis support.
What does years of potential life lost (YPLL) emphasize?Answer: Premature death, accounting for age at death and estimated remaining lifespan.
Which change helped improve oral health among children and adolescents?Answer: Dental benefits included in Medicaid and CHIP.
Based on Population Health for Nurses by Jessica Ochs, Sherry L. Roper, Susan M. Schwartz (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.