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A person’s health is shaped by the social, economic, cultural and environmental conditions they live in. Health inequities typically arise because of inequalities within society. Health inequities are avoidable and can be associated with forms of disadvantage such as poverty, discrimination, and access to goods and services.

In order to achieve health equity, we must not only focus on treating disease and modifying risk factors, we must focus on the underlying social determinants of health that influence population health and wellbeing. Improving the overall health of the population, and reducing health inequities, should be a core focus of the Australian health system.

While this Position Statement’s release has been delayed due to COVID-19, its recommendations not only remain valid, but have been reinforced by the disproportionate effect that the pandemic is having on the disadvantaged in our community, including those already experiencing poverty, health inequities, disability, and discrimination. 

To learn more, please read the AMA Position Statement 2020.

Details

1. Explain the social determinants of health.
2. Outline ways to tackle the problem appropriately.
3. Name the priority groups.
4. State the role of the profession and government.