Health equity is the idea that everyone should have the opportunity to achieve their optimal level of health, regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, geographic location, or other social determinants of health. It results from access to the social determinants of health, specifically wealth, power, and prestige. It emphasizes the absence of unjust and avoidable health disparities among different populations.
Individuals who have been consistently denied access to these three determinants are significantly disadvantaged by health inequities and have poorer health outcomes than those who have access to certain resources. It is not equitable to simply provide equal resources to all individuals; that would be equality.
Addressing the root causes of health disparities and promoting policies and practices that ensure equal access to healthcare services, resources, and health opportunities are all part of achieving health equity. Addressing social determinants of health, such as education, income, housing, and employment, may be part of this, as these factors have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to achieve and maintain good health.
Several key principles underlie the concept of health equity:
- Fair Opportunity: All individuals should have an equal opportunity to attain their highest level of health, which may involve addressing systemic barriers that hinder certain groups from accessing healthcare or achieving good health outcomes.
- Justice and Equality: Health equity is closely tied to broader principles of social justice and equality. It emphasizes the need to eliminate unjust and avoidable disparities in health and healthcare.
- Social Determinants: Health is influenced by a range of social, economic, and environmental factors. Achieving health equity requires addressing these determinants to create conditions that support health for all.
- Community Engagement: Recognizing the significance of community involvement in decision-making processes and healthcare planning is critical for developing effective strategies that address the unique needs and challenges of diverse populations.
Policy changes, community-based interventions, improvements in healthcare access, education, and addressing systemic inequalities may all be part of efforts to promote health equity. By focusing on health equity, societies hope to create conditions in which everyone, regardless of background or circumstances, has the opportunity to live a healthy life.
