The causes of social inequalities are complex and deeply rooted in different periods of a person’s life. The problem of health disparities is a crucial health issue, and it requires the early introduction of strategies that can reduce such inequality. These strategies include increasing community resilience to adverse external influences, social inclusion, and accumulation of resources for ensuring well-being. Gender mainstreaming and the development of individual and community resources are essential to protect and promote health and overcome health disparities.
The factor supporting segregation is negative social attitudes and stereotypes toward people with disabilities. A possible way to tackle the problem of segregation is the practice of inclusive education in universities1. The introduction of such a teaching method can contribute to the formation of people’s positive character traits and qualities that block discrimination. Implementing inclusive policies in the workplace can also help in the fight against ableism. Discrimination needs to be eradicated at the institutional level, but this does not mean that the participation of individuals is not important. In particular, no one must use ableist language while talking about people with disabilities. People should spread awareness, for example, on social networks about the importance of including disabled people in the space of interaction.
The health care provider must understand patients and their needs. Lack of attention to socio-cultural differences between the patient and the provider can deteriorate the patient’s health indicators. That is why it should be considered that cross-cultural education in the health professions will improve disparities. Only culturally educated professionals trained in gentle communication with members of national minorities can provide proper health care. Thus, the creation of training programs for social workers and health workers is required, where they would be taught the importance of socio-cultural factors.
Reference
Lawrie G, Marquis E, Fuller E, et al. Moving towards inclusive learning and teaching: a synthesis of recent literature. Teaching & Learning Inquiry. 2017;5(1):1-13.