MARGINALIZED GROUPS ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
United StatesIn the United States, African Americas, Latinos, Native Americans and Asian Americans are underserved in the healthcare system [1.]. Misdiagnosis, misunderstanding about treatment, and lack of transportation to health facilities are major issues in the healthcare system today. Along with this, minorities are likely to be uninsured [2].
It is extremely important for the healthcare system in America to develop and use innovative and culturally appropriate health education tools. It is also extremely important for the United States healthcare to invest in transportation to ensure all individuals are able to receive the healthcare that they deserve. Interpretation services is also essential for those who do not speak english to understand diagnosis and treatment. Interpretation services can also ensure doctors and healthcare providers are culturally appropriate and sensitive. Lastly it is essential for the United States healthcare to partner with community organizations, leaders, and even churches. This can ensure prominent healthcare to all patients with the help of outside sources [3]. |
United KingdomIn the United Kingdom, Black and minority ethnic groups experience health inequalities. Black and minority ethnic groups experience increased rate of poverty compared to White individuals who live in the United Kingdom. Factors including cultural differences, racism, and discrimination can cause proximity to healthcare to widen [4].
Initiatives have been in the works in the United Kingdom, but there is much debate whether Black and minority ethnic groups have benefited. One particularly initiative with the name of “Sure Start” hopes to improve child development within minority individuals [4]. The National Healthcare System in the United Kingdom operates on the belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege [5]. Prescriptions in the United Kingdom are either free or no more than $8.60. Most individuals who live in the United Kingdom receive their prescriptions for free. Along with this, birth control is free of cost and emergency treatment are ata reduced cost. With this being said, more government funding could would be greatly appreciated [6]. |
Graph showing the percents of adults who made a same-day or next day appointment when needed care in 2016. According to the graph, 57% of adults were able to get care who made a same day or next day appointment in the United Kingdom. In the United States, 51% of adults were able to get care who made a same day or next day appointment.
Graph showcasing the percent of adults that used emergency department for a condition that could have been treated by a regular doctor or place of care in 2016. 16% of adults in the United States used emergency department for a condition that could have been treated by a regular doctor or place of care, compared to the United Kingdom, which had 7%.
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