Socio-economic factors play a defining role in the accessibility and quality of healthcare received, both in the First World and developing countries. There are numerous issues affecting the populations that are related to their social or economic position within a society, but some of the more pertinent ones include wealth, social status, gender, race, and education (NIH, 2014). Wealth is often placed on the top since there is a clear correlation between wealth and longevity. Rich individuals are able to afford care and medicine others would not. They could travel to specific areas where healthcare is more available, if necessary. In addition, higher-quality care would also be readily available to them (NIH, 2014). Poor individuals do not have so many options, leading to reduced results.
Social status is determined by wealth but also by customs, traditions, religion, and other factors. In some areas of the world, males have substantially more access to healthcare than females, as the latter need to be escorted or receive permission from their husbands or fathers to undergo specific procedures (NIH, 2014). They might prohibit a visit to the hospital completely. Social status is also connected to wealth and education, barring people of certain races or genders from achieving their maximum potential while also affecting their health.
Education is intrinsically connected to one’s health status. Not only does it open up avenues for better income and more affordable care, it also allows an individual to understand their health situation better (NIH, 2014). People who know more about their bodies and what options are available to them are less likely to engage in destructive practices, thus maintaining better health. All of these factors can, to one degree or another, be overcome or minimized with time. The world is currently moving towards equality of income and equality of treatment. When historical and social injustices have been globally addressed, it will allow for a more egalitarian and universal quality of care.
Reference
National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2014). Social inequalities of health[Video]. Youtube. Web.