Health Disparities in Vulnerable Populations
Health disparities are preventable differences in the burden of disease, injury, violence, or opportunities to achieve optimal health that are experienced by socially disadvantaged populations, also known as vulnerable, underserved, or at-risk populations. These populations are at a greater risk for poorer health status and lower health care access.
Examples of vulnerable groups include (but are not limited to) racial or ethnic minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, patients in medically underserved areas, patients with low socioeconomic status, patients who speak a primary language different than their provider, patients suffering from a chronic illness or disability, and legally vulnerable patients such as children, undocumented immigrants or human trafficking victims.
Examples of health disparities include poverty, environmental threats, inadequate access to health care, and educational inequalities. For example, dropping out of school is associated with multiple social and health problems. Individuals with less education are more likely to experience health risks, such as obesity, substance abuse, and intentional and unintentional injury, compared with individuals with more education.
Further Reading