14 Jun 2011

Source: Irish Times

Tackling inequality in access to treatment would lead to a fall in premature fatalities, writes Dr MUIRIS HOUSTON

“Social injustice is killing people on a grand scale” – WHO 2008

COMING AS it does early in the lifetime of a new Government, the report by the independent think tank Tasc on health inequalities is timely. With the Minister for Health committed to developing the universal healthcare model, the report’s observations on this aspect of Government policy are especially relevant.

Health inequality is the difference in the experience of health among different sections of the population. Although some people will live longer, healthier lives due to genetic or hereditary factors, health inequity refers to inequalities which are unnecessary, unjust and avoidable, and can be addressed through public policies.