Disparities In Healthcare Access: The Suffering of Many Communities

Abstract

This paper explores the healthcare disparities in the United States, focusing on how factors such as race, age, geographic location, and socioeconomic status all come together to impact people’s health and access to care. Even with all the technological advancements and increased public awareness, many communities, especially those that are marginalized, are still facing major gaps in healthcare. For example, racial and ethnic minorities like African American and Hispanic communities are more likely to deal with chronic illnesses and have less access to quality treatment. Older adults in lower income brackets also tend to have worse health outcomes, and individuals living in rural or underserved areas often struggle to find a doctor nearby. When you factor in income and education levels, it becomes clear how strongly socioeconomic status affects health. Through a mix of literature review, statistics, and case studies, this paper reviews the complex systems that keep these disparities in place. The goal is to better understand what is leading to these disparities and suggest policy changes that could make healthcare more fair and accessible for everyone.

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2025

Senior Project Advisor

Scott M. Douglas, Ed.D.

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Applied Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

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