Articles tagged with Health Equity
A new report warns that AI can worsen health disparities in brain disease diagnoses if proper safeguards are not implemented. Researchers call for diverse perspectives, AI education, and strong governance to ensure equitable implementation.
A UCSF study found that a combination of outreach methods, including texts and live phone calls, significantly improves follow-up care for hard-to-reach patients. The integrated approach increased engagement among African American patients to 76.4% and improved overall reach rate by 3.5%, supporting their recovery and treatment outcomes.
The 2025 European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology (ESCAIDE) brings together over 3,000 participants to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration in infectious disease prevention and control. The conference highlights urgent priorities such as building trust in science, demonstrating science-based ...
Despite national policy, palliative care is often not equally accessible to all, with most people dying in hospitals or nursing homes rather than at home. The researchers emphasize the need for systematic implementation and integration of person-centred palliative care across different care settings.
A qualitative study found that physician responses to patient expectations contribute to pay gaps among Canadian physicians, particularly women, racialized, and immigrant physicians. Researchers suggest adjusting compensation models for extra time required for certain care types and examining fee schedules for underpaid services.
A study by Brown University and Harvard University found that premature deaths among adults aged 18-64 increased by 27% from 2012 to 2022, with Black Americans facing a 38% higher rate. This trend prevents many from accessing Medicare benefits, highlighting the inequities in the social safety net.
The G20 science academies recommend measures to address climate change consequences in health, ecology, and technology. The One Health approach is highlighted as a strategy to mitigate climate change, emphasizing sustainable land, water, and energy resource use.
A study analyzing US birth records found that a cap-and-trade initiative to reduce ozone pollution significantly improved infant health outcomes, including higher birth weight and lower rates of low birth weight and very preterm birth.
The Family Heart Foundation has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to educate primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers, and policymakers about high lipoprotein(a). The program aims to increase awareness, screening, and diagnosis of this genetic risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Harolyn Belcher is recognized for her significant contributions to advancing child and adolescent health, well-being, and equity through quality improvement, advocacy, practice, or research. Her work has had a far-reaching impact on the lives of marginalized communities.
A study of almost 10 million patients in Ontario found that those living over 30 km from their family physician were more likely to visit the emergency department for nonurgent reasons and had fewer visits with a family physician. The distance also negatively impacted preventive screening for certain cancers.
A University of Michigan study found that Medicaid coverage is linked to employment gains among low-income adults with serious health problems. Employment nearly doubled among enrollees who experienced improved health, from 26% to 47%. This suggests that Medicaid expansion may actually help individuals participate in the workforce.
The journal is launching a new section to popularize evidence-based strategic planning in digital health and provide comprehensive guidelines for its application. Papers can explore topics such as strategic planning frameworks, case studies of successful implementations, and stakeholder engagement.
A new framework harnesses generative AI to create personalized mental health treatment plans, addressing common barriers and improving outcomes for diverse individuals. The study uses a simulated client to explore pathways to mental health care and demographic disparities.
A new national study suggests that strengthening screening programs at community-based federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) could significantly increase cervical cancer screening rates and ultimately save thousands of lives. Currently, only about 55% of women seen at FQHCs are up to date on cervical cancer screening, far below th...
A new poll reveals that 19% of people age 50 and over identify as a person with a disability, while half may be entitled to protections and accommodations due to physical or mental conditions. Despite this, only 18% receive accommodations for healthcare visits.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet and UCL found that living in a safe neighborhood with high personal trust reduces psychosis risk among Swedish or European origin residents, but increases it for North African or Middle Eastern origin individuals. The researchers emphasize the need for inclusive environments to promote mental heal...
A study measuring the impact of a data-driven health strengthening project in Madagascar demonstrates success with a 30% reduction in child deaths. The project provides universal access to basic healthcare, improving outcomes despite challenging conditions.
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
A recent study by the University of Michigan highlights the issue of limited language accessibility in patient portals, which can prevent vulnerable patients from accessing vital healthcare services. The study found that 29% of hospitals only offer access to their patient portal in English, and fewer than 5% offer it in the most common...
A new RNA-based therapy targeting Marfan syndrome shows promise in treating the genetic disorder, which can lead to aortic aneurysms and be fatal. The therapy, developed by Mizzou researcher Dunpeng Cai, aims to correct mutated RNA for those with Marfan syndrome.
A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.
A recent analysis found that former inmates report worse health than non-incarcerated peers, even years after release. The study, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggests that clinicians consider screening for incarceration history and connecting patients to supportive services.
Researchers found that Medicaid accountable care organizations (ACOs) can improve some maternal health outcomes if designed thoughtfully. The study highlights the importance of value-based care delivery design within Medicaid programs to support low-income women before, during, and after pregnancy.
A University of Kansas program called Resilience Alliance has been found effective in reducing secondary traumatic stress and improving resilience among child care workers. The 12-week remote intervention helped lower stress levels and boost resilience, leading to better family outcomes.
A new report highlights how a California partnership, STOP COVID-19 CA, helped address health inequalities during the pandemic by bringing together researchers and communities. The network improved access to reliable information, testing, and vaccination, while laying the foundation for long-term health equity.
A study found that US-born individuals have a higher cardiovascular disease risk than foreign-born counterparts, especially those living in the US for over 15 years. Foreign-born adults face increased risks of diabetes and hypercholesterolemia with prolonged US residency.
A groundbreaking study enrolls 465 AYA cancer patients to test if chatbot technology and digital education tools increase uptake of genetic counseling and improve patient outcomes. The trial aims to address longstanding gaps in genetic services for AYAs aged 18-39, who often receive care with limited access to genetic specialists.
A recent study found that primary care providers in Ohio perceive and treat opioid use disorder (OUD) differently from other chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes. Despite recognizing OUD as a chronic brain disease, providers were less likely to offer treatment themselves.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions calls for Medicaid payment parity, fairer valuation of CHD procedures, and new compensation models to support care for children and adults with congenital heart disease. This policy statement aims to improve outcomes by addressing economic inequities in the healthcare system.
A new study found that over 40% of specialty clinics in the US turn away patients weighing 465 pounds or more due to lack of accessibility features. The study highlights a need for staff training on inclusive care and accommodations for patients with severe obesity.
The SHC-SHG program leads to a 16% reduction in LRDs among self-employed individuals, while unemployed individuals show significant behavioral changes but not health improvements. The increase in municipal funds is found to be cost-effective, with overall medical expenses reduced by nine times the increase.
The study reveals racial and ethnic disparities in occupational health, emphasizing the importance of addressing both concentration and within-occupation disparities. The findings suggest that targeted interventions can reduce health inequities among workers.
A new study has created a culturally-informed approach to screening for food insecurity among Navajo Nation patients, reducing stigma and improving patient comfort. The alternative screener reflects local food traditions and community food access better, capturing unique aspects of the issue.
A recent study at UC San Diego Health found that virtual transition of care clinics lower hospital readmissions for high-risk patients by 14.9%. The clinic provides immediate post-hospital care, reducing no-show rates and improving patient outcomes.
A portable device using machine learning can detect signs of concussions in real-time, providing a more objective way to assess injuries. The Mizzou Point-of-Care Assessment System combines a force plate, depth camera and interface board to track movement, balance and reaction times.
A study found that virtual care expansion in Ontario did not lead to a significant increase in specialists' practices in rural areas. Despite the widespread availability of virtual care and changes in remuneration, the researchers discovered that specialist physicians did not expand their reach to patients living at great distances.
A new study from Tufts University found nearly one in three young adults skipped dental visits due to cost and lack of insurance coverage. Young adults were more likely to skip medical care, struggle with copays, and report poor mental health or memory problems.
A new study from IU researchers found that simple screening questionnaires performed better than advanced machine learning methods in measuring social needs. However, each method had gaps, particularly with financial strain, which was harder to identify.
The University of Bergen's 'Fair Choices on the Path to Universal Health Coverage' project aims to strengthen low- and middle-income countries in handling cuts in development aid. The project will improve priority setting through evidence-informed, context-specific approaches, collaborating with academic institutions and governing bodi...
The article advocates for increased African representation on the Global Fund's governing board to promote self-reliance, contextualisation, and sustainability in global health. Adding at least one governmental seat would align with global norms and declarations, strengthening African health policy and accountability.
The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study presents the most up-to-date data for 204 countries and territories, highlighting trends in cardiovascular disease. The study supports progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3.4, by providing critical health data.
Dr. Alan Sager presents a guide to thorough healthcare reform in the US, citing high costs and inadequate insurance coverage as major issues. He proposes solutions such as containing costs safely, insuring all Americans, and securing adequate pay for doctors and hospitals.
ThriveLink has been selected as the winner of the inaugural Kraft Prize, a $100,000 national prize dedicated to transforming health outcomes in communities. The organization's telephonic AI enrollment solution empowers families to verbally complete and submit applications for safety-net programs.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation identifies critical global barriers to osteoporosis care, including limited DXA scanning and outdated treatment criteria. The IOF advocates for a paradigm shift in bone health management worldwide, recognizing high fracture risk as a valid criterion for treatment and reimbursement.
A new study reveals persistent disparities in telehealth access among rural US populations, with older adults, Spanish speakers, and those on Medicaid or Medicare facing significant barriers. The research highlights the need for policy reform and digital health equity efforts to address these disparities and improve virtual care access.
The RenewU program provides evidence-based interventions to prevent burnout and promote resilience in healthcare providers. The toolkit offers mental health support, stress management, and physical wellness resources, including yoga and exercise guides.
Duke-NUS Medical School is sharpening its focus on population health, driven by the need to address rising healthcare costs and chronic diseases in Singapore. The Health Services Research and Population Health (HSRPH) Programme aims to deliver scalable, cost-effective solutions that improve patient outcomes and inform national policies.
A study by McGill University researchers found that biases and stereotypes influence healthcare staff's decisions to administer sexual assault evidence kits in rural hospitals. Survivors of sexual assault from marginalized groups face systemic barriers to accessing these kits, which are essential for documenting injuries and gathering ...
The new STROBE-Equity extension provides a framework for researchers to report health equity data and considerations in observational studies. This improved reporting can help knowledge users better identify and apply evidence relevant to populations experiencing inequities.
A new UCLA-led study finds that government housing assistance reduces the risk of medical bill stress by nearly seven percentage points among US renters with cancer, leading to improved quality of life and reduced poor physical and mental health outcomes.
A new University of Michigan study found that critically ill patients without health insurance are less likely to receive inter-hospital transfers for treatment, leading to higher mortality rates. Patients with commercial insurance have a significantly lower risk of death compared to those without insurance or with Medicare/Medicaid.
Nancy Brown, American Heart Association CEO, receives Lifetime Achievement Award from World Heart Federation for her visionary leadership and global impact on transforming cardiovascular health. The award recognizes her dedication to improving access to quality healthcare worldwide.
A study by researchers at the Complexity Science Hub found that hospital stays among migrants in Austria are significantly lower than those of native Austrians. However, readmission rates among migrants were higher, indicating potential access barriers or delayed healthcare utilization. The study's findings suggest that the 'Healthy Mi...
A new cross-national study finds that older adults with disabilities are less likely to receive preventive care, but higher government health spending closes the gap. Investing in public healthcare promotes equitable access to preventive services, particularly among vulnerable populations.
A new article by Dr. Leonard Berry of Texas A&M University argues that values-driven listening can improve care and heal the healthcare system. The authors identify six types of listening, including proximate, curious, earning trust, aided by design, empowering, and fostering resilience, which contribute to better care.
The summit features renowned scholars, healthcare professionals, and industry innovators discussing biotechnology, digital health, and AI in healthcare. Key panels focus on the impact of biotechnology, integrating digital technology into healthcare solutions, and exploring ethical challenges.
Recent research highlights the challenges of communication for autistic adults, including language and nonverbal barriers. Experts recommend a multifaceted approach to support autistic individuals, focusing on adaptations that accommodate their differences.
A new study analyzing over 13 million electronic health records found that clinicians are more likely to doubt the sincerity or competence of Black patients. This bias may contribute to ongoing disparities in healthcare and be addressed through medical training and AI-powered language tools.
In US cities once marked as 'hazardous,' ambulances often take longer to arrive than in previously favored areas. The study analyzed 236 urban areas and found that 7.06% of residents in Grade D tracts lacked rapid access to emergency medical services, compared to 4.36% in Grade A tracts.