New Conversations: Justice, Disparities, and Meeting the Needs of Our Most Vulnerable Populations

This is a difficult time in health care. In Washington, health care legislation has advanced that would result in tens of millions of Americans becoming uninsured.1 Proposals to reduce Medicaid funding could affect access to health care among our most vulnerable populations, and the effects of these proposals upon insurance premiums and coverage options for those who purchase insurance through the exchanges are uncertain. All of this has occurred without the support of major health care organizations or consumer groups. How could such momentous changes affecting those most in need of health care access occur without including the opinions and expertise of the health care community or the patients that would be most affected by the changes? Can we find ways to have our voices heard? On a global level, vulnerable populations are facing other challenges related to health care. The problems of the health care of refugees, victims of natural disasters, and those exposed to emerging infections have garnered well deserved attention. The poorest and most vulnerable populations of underdeveloped nations are particularly affected. But there are also ongoing problems of aging populations, chronic disease, health care workforce supply, and funding of health care that are creating problems for the health care of vulnerable populations in even the most developed nations. What can we learn from the experiences around the world to inform our conversations about ensuring that vulnerable popul...
Source: Academic Medicine Blog - Category: Universities & Medical Training Authors: Tags: Featured From the Editor health disparities New Conversations social justice vulnerable populations Source Type: blogs