What it means
Health equity means removing the obstacles that keep some groups less healthy than others, such as poverty, discrimination, lack of insurance, unsafe housing and lack of nearby care. These conditions where people live, learn and work are called the social determinants of health. Equity is not giving everyone the same thing; it is giving people what they need to reach good health.
For the nurse
Ask about barriers such as cost, transport, language and food, and connect clients with resources. Use interpreters and plain-language teaching.
At a glance
| Spanish | equidad en salud |
|---|---|
| Also written | health-equity |
Related terms
patient-centered care
Care planned around the client's own needs, values and choices, with the client as a full partner in decisions.
socioeconomic status
A person's social and financial position, usually measured by income, education and type of work.
stigma
Negative beliefs and labels that society attaches to a condition or group of people, leading to shame and unfair treatment.