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Analyzing Healthcare Issues
Your Name
Capella University
NHS4000: Developing a Healthcare Perspective
Instructor Name
Month, Year
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Health disparities among individuals with low socioeconomic status (SES) remain a persistent
challenge in healthcare reflecting systemic inequalities that impact access, outcomes, and overall well-
being. This paper will explain this issue of health care disparities for low SES people, analyze the
contributing factors, compare potential solutions, discuss ethical considerations surrounding the
implementation of these solutions, and how solutions can benefit individuals with their chronic disease
management.
Health Disparities for Low SES People
Low SES individuals face a health disparity because of social determinants that extend beyond
the healthcare system. These determinants include income, education, employment, housing, and
access to healthcare resources (Jones, et al., 2022). Individuals with low SES often encounter barriers in
accessing quality healthcare services, leading to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poorer
health outcomes.
Factors contributing to health disparities include limited financial resources, lack of health
insurance, transportation challenges, and reduced health literacy (Garcia, et al., 2023). These individuals
may experience higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, which can
be exacerbated by inadequate access to preventive care and health education (Jones, et al., 2022).
Analyzing Health Disparities for Low SES People
Studies consistently demonstrate that individuals with lower SES experience higher mortality
rates, increased prevalence of chronic diseases, and reduced life expectancy compared to their higher
SES counterparts (Smith & Johnson, 2021). The disparities due to lower SES can include limited financial
resources, transportation and technology which can limit their ability to attend needed appointments to
not only treat illness, but also provide preventative care. Individuals may want to attend needed
appointments and take their prescriptions as ordered but may lack the ability to do so because of
financial limitations.
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Comparing and Contrasting Solutions
One solution is the expansion of community health clinics and mobile healthcare units to
enhance accessibility along with the use of telemedicine. These initiatives bring healthcare services
directly to underserved populations. This eliminates the individuals missing their appointments because
there is not adequate transportation.
Another strategy involves targeted public health education campaigns that raise awareness
about preventive measures, available resources, and the importance of regular health check-ups.
Increasing health literacy empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and
navigate the healthcare system more effectively. The goal of this strategy is to make individuals aware of
the services available to them so they can improve their overall health and wellbeing.
To help individuals be able to afford healthcare services, healthcare providers can implement
financial assistance programs and sliding scale fees for low SES individuals (Smith & Johnson, 2021).
These initiatives aim to reduce financial barriers, ensuring that cost does not deter individuals from
seeking necessary medical care.
Ethical Principles in Implementing Solutions
The implementation of solutions to address health disparities for low SES individuals must be
guided by ethical principles. The creation of mobile healthcare units follows the four ethical principles of
beneficence, nonmaleficence and autonomy and justice.
Beneficence requires interventions that actively promote the well-being of individuals, focusing
on improving access to healthcare, preventive services, and health education. Having a mobile unit
ensures low SES individuals will have access to care available to them. Nonmaleficence calls for the
avoidance of harm, emphasizing the importance of addressing the root causes of health disparities. The
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mobile clinics address the issue of individuals not having transportation to attend needed healthcare
visits.
Respecting autonomy involves recognizing low SES individuals in their healthcare decisions. The
mobile healthcare units allow the individual to decide to seek treatment and give them the option to
attend appointments they may not have been able to because of limited transportation.
Justice is a fundamental ethical principle that underscores the need for fair and equitable distribution of
healthcare resources. The utilization of a mobile healthcare clinic helps those in need to be able to seek
out and obtain healthcare when needed, promoting equal access to quality healthcare for all.
Solutions and Chronic Disease Management
The proposed solutions to address health disparities for low SES individuals have direct
implications for chronic disease management. Community-based interventions and increased access to
healthcare services enhance the continuum of care for individuals with chronic conditions.
Providing a mobile healthcare clinic is beneficial for chronic disease management among low SES
populations. The mobile clinic provides a convenient and accessible means for individuals to consult
healthcare professionals, monitor their conditions, and receive timely advice, especially in areas with
limited healthcare infrastructure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing health disparities for low SES individuals is a complex process that
requires a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors, thoughtful analysis, and ethical
considerations in the implementation of solutions. The creation and use of a mobile clinic can help
bridge the gap in healthcare access and promote preventive care while upholding ethical principles. A
mobile clinic creates a location that benefits all individuals, particularly those facing chronic diseases in
low SES communities.
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References
Garcia, R., Hickey, M. T., Stillo, M., & Marquez, C. (2023). The impact of public transportation on health
outcomes: A longitudinal study of low SES individuals. Journal of Nursing, 30(1), 78-91.
Jones, M., King, O., Shaw, N. (2022). Access to primary care services for low SES individuals: A systematic
Review. Journal of Health Equity, 8(2), 112-125.
Smith, A., & Johnson, B. (2021). Bridging the Gap: Nursing interventions for low SES populations. Journal
of Nursing Research, 25(3), 45-58.
