The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Healthcare Access and Outcomes in Washington State
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.562Keywords:
socioeconomic status, healthcare access, washington stateAbstract
Healthcare inequity remains a significant challenge in the medical field to this day, especially for individuals who face more barriers to accessing quality medical services. This research paper explores the extent to which one’s socioeconomic status influences their treatment and health outcome in Washington State. Through reading and analyzing published literature, this research will analyze the main relationship between one’s socioeconomic status and the quality of medical treatment as well as ways to reduce the inequity. The findings show that an individual’s socioeconomic status influences their access to healthcare and health outcomes to a significant extent. Those with lower incomes express greater dissatisfaction with the quality of healthcare received and have overall worse outcomes. SES intertwines with many other factors that overall restrict an individual’s healthcare access and outcome: intrinsic factors such as insurance, ethnicity, race, and financial abilities, as well as extrinsic factors such as exposure to environmental hazards, geographical barriers, and more. This is due to factors such as health insurance, financial limitations, inadequate treatment from healthcare professionals, and less flexibility in scheduling appointments for individuals with lower-paying jobs. Moreover, geographical barriers are also a contributing factor. Limited transportation further impedes access as individuals may not have the ability to pay for transportation fees, and long distances are also a problem. In conclusion, this research paper evaluates the previous studies conducted on this topic and seeks to bring attention to the relationship between socioeconomic status and healthcare on the West Coast of the United States. Policies and interventions are needed to address these complex relationships, along with collaborative efforts between different departments, professionals, and the community in order to have a more sustainable effect. By putting in the effort to work toward equity in healthcare, we can strive for a healthier community.
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