What does "health equity" refer to?

Health equity refers to the principle of achieving equal health outcomes for all individuals, regardless of social determinants such as socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, or geographic location. This concept goes beyond merely providing equal access to healthcare services; it emphasizes the need to address and eliminate barriers that prevent certain populations from achieving optimal health.

The focus on equal outcomes means that health policies and initiatives must consider the diverse conditions in which people live and work, aiming to provide tailored support that leads to improved health for everyone, particularly vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. This ensures that health disparities can be identified and addressed systematically, leading to fairer health systems and better overall public health.