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International Journal of Molecular Medicine and Advance Sciences
2024, Volume 20, Issue 1 : 27-34
Research Article
Healthcare Disparities and Equity in Medical Services: Challenges, Determinants, and Strategies for Achieving Equitable Healthcare
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1
Department of Public Health and Health Policy, Global Health Research Institute, Boston, USA
2
Department of Community Medicine, International Medical University, London, UK
3
School of Population Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
4
Department of Epidemiology and Health Systems Research, Toronto Medical Sciences Center, Canada
Received
Dec. 14, 2023
Revised
Jan. 21, 2024
Accepted
Feb. 15, 2024
Published
March 30, 2024
Abstract

Background: Healthcare equity is a fundamental principle of modern health systems and a key component of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Despite advances in medical science and healthcare delivery, significant disparities persist across populations based on socioeconomic status, geographic location, gender, ethnicity, education, and healthcare accessibility. These disparities contribute to unequal health outcomes and reduced quality of life among vulnerable populations. Objective: To assess healthcare disparities in access, utilization, and outcomes and evaluate factors influencing equity in medical services. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 2,500 adults utilizing healthcare services across urban and rural regions. Data regarding healthcare access, service utilization, affordability, patient satisfaction, and health outcomes were collected through structured questionnaires and medical records review. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, logistic regression, and multivariate analyses. Results: Rural populations reported significantly lower healthcare accessibility (58.4%) compared with urban populations (84.7%). Individuals from lower-income households experienced greater financial barriers, delayed healthcare seeking, and lower utilization of preventive services. Educational attainment and insurance coverage were strong predictors of equitable healthcare access (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Healthcare disparities remain a major public health challenge. Addressing structural inequities through policy reforms, healthcare infrastructure development, financial protection mechanisms, and targeted interventions is essential for achieving equitable healthcare delivery.

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