Leveling the field--Ensuring equity through National Health Care Reform

Authors

Bruce Siegel, George Washington University
Lea Nolan, George Washington University

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

12-2009

Journal

New England Journal of Medicine

Volume

Volume 361

Inclusive Pages

2401-2403

Keywords

Emergent Care; Access to Health Care; Hospitals; Disparities; Quality Improvement

Abstract

Members of minority groups have higher rates of disease, poorer health, and more limited access to care than their white counterparts. They account for half of the uninsured population and 58% of the low-income uninsured population. Even when they have coverage, minority patients are at risk for receiving lower-quality medical and surgical care than white patients. The factors underlying these inequities are complex and go far beyond the health care system,but any meaningful reform must, at a minimum, confront disparities in care. Health care reform provides a unique opportunity to reversea legacy of inequality in health and health care. This chance should not be squandered.

APA Citation

Siegel, B., Nolan, L. (2009). Leveling the field--Ensuring equity though national health care reform. New England Journal of Medicine, 361, 2401-2403.

Open Access

1