What Do the Numbers and Text Really Mean: Using Data to End Health Disparities and Strengthen Communities
Author: Community Science for the National Partnership for Action to End Health Disparities (NPA)
Date: 2013
Abstract: When we look across the country, it’s clear that certain groups have more health problems than others. Sometimes, it looks like they’re more serious and severe. Why does this happen to some groups of people and not to others? Some of it has to do with differences in social experiences and economic conditions, which can cause some people to have different access to resources and opportunities. These differences are the health disparities we see and read about. Everyone, regardless of their social, economic, or any other characteristics, should have the right to the resources and opportunities that can positively affect their health. When they do, health equity becomes possible. Low-income families; racial and ethnic minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people; people with disabilities; elderly people, and people who live in rural or geographically isolated places — these groups often experience social and economic disadvantages. There are many reasons why disparities occur and many populations that experience disparities. In this guide, we will use examples related to racial and ethnic minorities; the tips provided can be applied to any population. Data or “facts” can be a powerful tool for communities that are fighting for fairness in health and mobilizing around other key issues that matter to residents. By harnessing the power of data, community groups and residents can more effectively “fight back” against policies and practices that create health disparities, and advocate and push for new ways of doing business in our communities.
Tags: Data to action, Equity, Health, Health disparities, Impact,
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Date: 2013
Abstract: When we look across the country, it’s clear that certain groups have more health problems than others. Sometimes, it looks like they’re more serious and severe. Why does this happen to some groups of people and not to others? Some of it has to do with differences in social experiences and economic conditions, which can cause some people to have different access to resources and opportunities. These differences are the health disparities we see and read about. Everyone, regardless of their social, economic, or any other characteristics, should have the right to the resources and opportunities that can positively affect their health. When they do, health equity becomes possible. Low-income families; racial and ethnic minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people; people with disabilities; elderly people, and people who live in rural or geographically isolated places — these groups often experience social and economic disadvantages. There are many reasons why disparities occur and many populations that experience disparities. In this guide, we will use examples related to racial and ethnic minorities; the tips provided can be applied to any population. Data or “facts” can be a powerful tool for communities that are fighting for fairness in health and mobilizing around other key issues that matter to residents. By harnessing the power of data, community groups and residents can more effectively “fight back” against policies and practices that create health disparities, and advocate and push for new ways of doing business in our communities.
Tags: Data to action, Equity, Health, Health disparities, Impact,
DOWNLOAD