"Equity in health implies that ideally everyone should have a fair opportunity to attain their full health potential and, more pragmatically, that no one should be disadvantaged from achieving this potential, if it can be avoided." M. Whitehead, 1990

People belonging to less advantaged groups tend to experience disparities in their health status because of issues related to unequal social power and discrimination. In terms of access to health care, significant inequities exist with regards to how people access and experience these services. For example, factors such as gender, race, sexual orientation, immigration status, income and education can influence a person's access to timely, appropriate and high-quality care.

Health equity is concerned with creating fair opportunities for good health for all and reducing avoidable and unjust differences in health among population groups.

 

We provide a number of resources, tools and trainings to support increased knowledge, skills and attitudes for better equitable health services, and health outcomes.

 

Whitehead, Margaret. 1990. The concepts and Principles of equity and health. World Health Organization, Regional Office for Europe. Copenhagen.