Discrimination can be defined as an unfair treatment that is based on prejudice against a person's race, gender, religion, age, disability, etc., leading to negative consequences for them. This includes mistreatment that denies individuals access to opportunities, resources, and services they are entitled to receive. In the context of healthcare, it can lead to reduced life expectancy. Discriminatory practices in healthcare can include neglecting to provide adequate care due to factors such as a patient's ethnic background or financial status.
One example of discrimination in healthcare that has significant effects on life expectancy is when patients belonging to minority groups do not have equal access to quality medical care compared to their white counterparts. Studies have shown that minority groups face higher mortality rates than whites, despite having similar disease burdens, potentially because of unequal access to high-quality care.
Black Americans suffer from chronic diseases at higher rates than Whites but have shorter life expectancies. These disparities can be attributed to various reasons, including lack of insurance coverage, limited availability of providers who speak the same language, and cultural differences in how healthcare is viewed. Therefore, this type of discrimination can contribute to decreased life expectancy among minority groups.
Another form of discrimination in healthcare that affects life expectancy is the exclusion of members of the LGBTQ+ community from receiving appropriate care. Healthcare professionals may not be well trained to understand the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, which leads to inadequate treatment and ultimately reduces their lifespan. According to studies, lesbian women are more likely to delay seeking necessary healthcare because they feel uncomfortable with traditional doctor-patient relationships. This, along with other forms of prejudice, contributes to a greater risk of death for these individuals.
Transgender people often experience mistreatment while seeking hormone therapy or gender confirmation surgery due to lack of understanding by physicians.
Discrimination against those with disabilities also has severe implications on life expectancy. People living with physical or mental disabilities may struggle to receive timely medical attention when needed since many facilities are not equipped to meet their unique requirements. The lack of accessible buildings and transportation options makes it difficult for disabled persons to access regular checkups or emergency services. Such discriminatory practices can result in increased mortality rates among this vulnerable group.
Reducing discrimination in healthcare could lead to improved outcomes for patients, increasing their chances of survival. It involves creating policies and programs that promote equality and addressing structural barriers that perpetuate disparities. Healthcare providers should receive training in cultural competency to provide quality care for all patients, regardless of their background.
Governments must ensure that everyone receives equal access to affordable and high-quality healthcare, including marginalized groups. By doing so, we will increase our population's overall well-being and improve the quality of life for all.
How does discrimination in healthcare reduce life expectancy?
Discrimination is one of the most persistent social issues facing minority groups around the world. It can take various forms, including but not limited to sexism, ageism, racism, classism, and homophobia. In the context of healthcare, it results in unfair treatment and unequal access to medical services and care. This, in turn, has significant implications for public health outcomes, including reduced life expectancy.