The dynamics between health equity and service improvement consist of a mutualistic relationship: high-quality, equitable services do not mean having a standardized approach for all clients. Not everyone has the same circumstances, needs and preferences, including those related to the social determinants of health (Dzau et al., 2022). Therefore, organizations should plan and monitor quality improvement strategies and approaches with equity in mind (Dzau et al., 2022).
Look at the percentage of the population that has access to health care services and the extent to which these services are affordable and accessible.
Look at the quality of care that is provided to different groups, and whether there are disparities in care based on factors such as race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status.
Look at the health outcomes of different groups, and whether there are disparities in outcomes based on factors such as race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status.
Make health equity a strategic priority.
Develop the structure and processes to support health equity work.
Implement specific strategies to address the multiple determinants of health where health care organizations can have a direct impact.
Decrease institutional racism within the organization.
Develop partnerships with community organizations to improve health and equity.
Service-level equity is also impacted by racism, especially for newcomers. We will explore this next.