cq2; socio-economically disadvantaged people Flashcards
What is the nature and extent of health inequities for low SES people? (Why do they experience poor health outcomes?)
Low SES people experience poor outcomes due to factors relating to;
- education
- employment
- income
What are examples of the extent of health inequities for low SES people?
- Higher levels of lifestyle diseases (CVD, diabetes) →typically due to modifiable behaviours
- Lower life expectancy
- Premature mortality
- More doctor visits
- Less likely to access preventative health services (e.g. breast cancer screening)
What are the sociocultural factors that affect low SES?
A person’s attitudes regarding health are often a reflection of their environment
People living in low socio-economic areas are more exposed to;
- High levels of substance abuse
- Violence
- Discrimination
- Conflict
These impact physical and mental health.
What are the socioeconomic factors that affect low SES?
- Low health literacy
- Low income (due to low employment)
How does low health literacy affect an individuals health?
Health Literacy is an individual’s ability to understand health information and utilise it.
(e.g. reading medication instructions and knowing which health services to visit)
How does low income affect an individuals health?
Low income;
- Limits an individual’s health options (e.g. gym memberships, private health insurance)
- Affects the food people eat (buying fast food rather than healthy food as it is a cheaper means of obtaining calories)
What are the environmental factors that affect low SES?
Due to low SES, they are forced into poor housing with poor infrastructure.
This means that they have;
- Poor access to water systems and electricity
- Forced to stay in overcrowded housing → more susceptible to communicable diseases
What is the role of individuals in low SE areas to address health inequities?
They have a responsibility to access health information and participate in health promotion initiatives.
- This information should be implemented in their lives and used to make good health choices.
What is the role of communities to address health inequities in low SE areas?
- Communities should create programs (e.g. free sporting competitions) to encourage participation in physical activity and exercise.
- Communities should also implement health promotion initiatives developed by state and federal governments.
What is the role of governments to address health inequities in low SE areas? (general)
Governments are responsible for funding health care services and developing local, state and federal programs.
What is the role of state governments to address health inequities in low SE areas?
Responsible for immunisation programs for school-aged students.
(e.g. administering hepatitis B vaccinations to highschool students)
What is the role of federal governments to address health inequities in low SE areas?
- Responsible for Medicare, the public health system
- Responsible for Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), reducing costs
