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Disparities & Policy

PERSPECTIVE

Incorporating Socioeconomic Factors Into U.S. Health Policy: Addressing The Barriers

Several papers in this issue indicate a strong relationship between health and socioeconomic factors such as income, education, and occupation.¹ Some argue that these factors underlie and are more important than health services or even lifestyles in determining morbidity and mortality.²

In trying to explain the link between socioeconomic factors and health, some researchers emphasize the direct impact of poverty and deprivation on living conditions; others focus more on the effects of inequality within a society.³ There is also evidence that race is inextricably linked to socioeconomic status but also displays an independent effect on health.⁴ Various mediators between socioeconomic . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Political Barriers

 
Show that it doesn’t take a revolution.Include intermediate actions.Demonstrate cost-effectiveness.Focus on population segments where economic impact or political interest is greatest.

Professional Barriers

 
Find common ground with advocates of universal access.Make peace with the behaviorists.Build on efforts that start with health.

Organizational Barriers

 
Conduct health impact assessments.Consider block-grant funding for health and other services.Appoint a special commission.Establish a permanent locus of collaboration.Involve states and communities.

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