SOCIAL JUSTICE: UNDERSTANDING HEALTH Daughter: I'm glad we had this conversation, Mom.

It's
EQUITY VS HEALTH EQUALITY
Mother: Hey, sweetheart, I've been reading about social
justice in healthcare, specifically the concepts of health
equity and health equality. It's fascinating how these
terms play a role in achieving a fair healthcare system
for everyone. Have you heard about them?
Daughter: Yes, Mom! We discussed them briefly in my
social studies class. Health equity and health equality
seem similar, but I think they have different meanings.
Health equality is about treating everyone the same,
right?
Mother: That's correct, dear! Health equality focuses on
providing equal access to healthcare resources and
services to everyone, regardless of their background or
circumstances. It assumes that all individuals have the
same needs and face the same barriers when it comes
to healthcare.
eye-opening to understand the difference between
health equity and health equality. It shows how
important it is to address the unique needs and
circumstances of individuals and communities in order
to achieve a truly fair healthcare system.
Mother: I'm glad you found it valuable, sweetheart. It's
essential for us to be aware of these concepts and
advocate for a healthcare system that promotes social
justice and equality for all. Together, we can contribute
to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.
Daughter: Absolutely, Mom! Let's continue learning and
spreading awareness about health equity and the
importance of social justice in healthcare. Together, we
can make a difference. Mother: That's my girl! I'm proud
of your understanding and enthusiasm. Let's keep the
conversation going and work towards a healthier and
more just world.

Daughter: But from what I understand, health equity

takes into account that not everyone starts from the
same place and faces the same barriers. It
acknowledges the existence of health disparities and
aims to address them, right?

Mother: Exactly! Health equity recognizes that

individuals and communities have different needs and
face different barriers to health. It goes beyond equal
treatment and provides additional support and
resources to those who need it the most. By addressing
these disparities, health equity aims to achieve fairness
and justice in healthcare outcomes.

Daughter: So, health equity considers factors like

income, education, and access to resources that can
affect a person's health. It's about eliminating the
underlying causes of health disparities to ensure
everyone has an equal opportunity to be healthy.

Mother: Absolutely, sweetheart! Health equity takes

into account the social determinants of health, such as
socioeconomic status and environmental factors. It aims
to create a level playing field by providing the necessary
support and resources to individuals and communities
who are disadvantaged or marginalized.

Daughter: That's really important, Mom. It's not just

about equal access to healthcare, but also addressing
the root causes of health disparities. By promoting
health equity, we can work towards a fairer and more
inclusive society.

Mother: You've got it, darling! Health equity plays a

crucial role in promoting social justice in healthcare. It
ensures that everyone, regardless of their background,
has the opportunity to achieve their highest level of
health and well-being. It reduces health disparities and
promotes fairness in society, ultimately leading to
better health outcomes for all.