What are Healthcare Disparities?

Healthcare disparities are preventable differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health experienced by socially disadvantaged populations. These disparities are reflected in differences in healthcare access, quality, and outcomes between various demographic groups.

Why are addressing healthcare disparities important?

• Health equity: Promotes fairness in access to quality healthcare for all populations.
• Improved outcomes: Reduces preventable suffering and premature deaths.
• System efficiency: Decreases avoidable healthcare costs from delayed or inappropriate care.

Major factors contributing to healthcare disparities

• Socioeconomic status and educational attainment.
• Geographic location and transportation access.
• Cultural and language barriers to appropriate care.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help identify and address barriers to care you may face due to social, economic, or cultural factors. They can locate providers who offer culturally competent care, assist with language access services, help navigate transportation challenges, and connect you with community resources to address social determinants affecting your health outcomes.