Addressing health disparities, which are avoidable differences in access and outcomes in healthcare stemming from systemic factors, is critical for improving health outcomes. Racism, marginalization and discrimination operate at various levels in healthcare system, perpetuating discriminatory practices. Achieving health equity entails fair treatment for all, ensuring equitable (not equal) opportunities and outcomes.
Psychologists play a crucial role in dismantling inequities through identifying and tackling systemic barriers and promoting cultural humility among providers and within the healthcare system, as well as promoting adoption of a biopsychosocial perspective, all of which are critical for advancing health equity.
Primary care serves a vital function in fostering health equity through establishment of trusting relationships between patient and providers. Centering the input and perspectives of diverse racial, ethnic, multicultural, and historically marginalized patients in care design enhances relationships and improves outcomes, leading to healthier outcomes.