Posts

Marginalized Populations:

Image
Marginalized Populations:  Healthcare Access : Marginalized populations often experience barriers to accessing healthcare services due to factors like lack of insurance, transportation difficulties, and healthcare provider biases. For example, homeless individuals may not have a consistent address, making it hard to receive ongoing care or follow-up appointments. Socioeconomic Status: Low income and poverty are significant determinants. Economic instability limits access to nutritious food, safe housing, and educational opportunities, all of which are linked to health outcomes. Veterans transitioning from military service to civilian life may face unemployment or underemployment, increasing their risk for substance use and mental health issues. Social Isolation and Stigma: Many individuals in marginalized communities face social isolation due to the stigma associated with their conditions (e.g., mental illness, substance use). This isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression a...

History of Addiction in America, Module 2

Image
  History of Addiction in America, Module 2 This module provides a panoramic view of addiction in America, especially to the opioid epidemic and its lasting impacts. Here is an overview of the important themes: Historical Legacy of Opioids in America There is now a long history of opioid use and addiction in America, characterized by cycles of medical use, misuse, and addiction from the 19th-century epidemic related to morphine to the current prescription opioid crisis. These patterns help clarify why and how- the challenges with managing opioids for pain persist while trying to prevent addiction. The role of pharmaceutical companies, failure in policy-making, and lack of early intervention have shaped the opioid epidemics that occur today. Historical mistrust of addicts and viewing addiction as a moral failing and not a medical disease further stigmatized this issue. Comparison of U.S. and Global Substance Use: https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/deaths-illicit-drugs?tab=table Alth...

Module 1, Health Disarities

Image
  Health Disparities in America, Module 1 Addressing health disparities and improving health outcomes requires a multifaceted approach considering the social determinants of health (SDoH), such as economic stability, education, and community context. Health disparities, rooted in systemic inequities, need targeted interventions to mitigate their impact. The U.S. health disadvantage compared to other nations is linked to factors l ike a fragmented healthcare system, social inequalities, and adverse lifestyle behaviors. To address these challenges, expanding healthcare access, investing in social determinants, and fostering community-based partnerships are essential.        What is the Significance of the Social Determinants of Health for Health Care? The social determinants of health (SDoH) are conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These factors significantly influence health outcomes and can determine access to healthcare services, qual...