What does 'health equity' refer to in healthcare research?

Health equity refers to the principle of fairness in healthcare access, treatment, and outcomes across different populations. It emphasizes that everyone deserves the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, regardless of social, economic, or environmental factors that may influence health disparities. This concept recognizes that systemic barriers—such as socioeconomic status, race, geographic location, and other social determinants—can affect individuals' ability to access healthcare services or lead to different health outcomes.

In healthcare research, focusing on health equity means examining how these disparities manifest and identifying strategies to eliminate them. By doing so, the aim is to ensure that all individuals receive appropriate and effective healthcare services tailored to their specific needs, ultimately leading to improved overall health outcomes for the entire population.