Social Impact on Health

Today I learned a little more about health equity. I have honestly never really considered the term. It always came up at some point each year in my schooling, however I never focused on it. Well, today I learned that it is the right for everyone to have the opportunity to achieve the best health possible for them. That is a huge statement. It is saying that no matter where you come from, the money you have, or how kind you are you should receive the right tools in order to achieve the highest health quality for yourself. Also, if you think about the topic a little more it brings up a big question. What if I do not have enough money? What if someone needs immediate brain surgery, but has no money? Isn't it the health care providers' rights to give the patient the resources such as surgery to achieve their best health? This is a question I have been asking myself since reading about health equity. If you have comments about this topic please reply.

 

One other thing that I found out today was my school, UTHSC, is looking to implement classes about the social impact on healthcare. It goes right along with health equity. My opinion is that it should be taught. I believe that we as healthcare providers need to understand the concept. We as occupational therapists' must understand where others are coming from. It is the very foundation of our career, looking at the everyday lives of others. Honestly, I do not think it would be a bad idea to have an entire class based upon this subject. If we want to change the way societal hierarchy determines one's health, then I believe this is a good start.