Key Factors that Influence Minority Health Outcomes

Prior to reviewing or assessing pertinent statistical data regarding overall minority health outcomes, it is crucial to examine the key factors that influence or govern specific health outcomes for minority or other diverse groups within the general population.

by Charles E. Taylor, MPH, MT (ASCP)

Diverse cultures within the general population have the same basic human needs as any other group represented within the population.

Differences lie within the approach or response these diverse groups incorporate to meet these specific needs.

Endeavors utilized to accomplish this goal is achieved via embracing visions, customs, beliefs, and values unique to the particular group, with innovative perspectives and solutions that ultimately have a favorable impact on social and economic perils that may hinder minority health outcomes.



It
is proven that within a diverse population of people who work together,
share humanity, possess a vision, and establish credibility that is
viewed and appreciated as being rendered for the “common good” of the
individual and the community in which they reside.


Determinants of
health as defined by the Healthy People 2010, refers to “The array of
critical influences that determine the health of individuals including
biology (individual’s genetic makeup), family history (that may suggest
a risk for disease), behaviors, social environment (interactions with
family, friends, coworkers, and others), physical environment, policies
and intervention, and access to health care.”


Disparities in
health that impart a negative impact on health outcomes cannot be
categorized. No particular race or ethnic group is regarded as a target
audience, due to the fact that the same trends that contribute to
unfavorable health outcomes in minorities and ethnic groups are also
readily exhibited in the general population.


It is understood
that disparities in health and health outcomes possess many
characteristics and are a result of the complex interaction of various
factors that are unique to each group of people represented.

This
concept allows for further investigation and implementation of
evaluative measures that ensure relevant information, referred to as
demographics, that are retrieved are detailed in race and ethnicity,
education and income, disability, and geographic location.


Race and Ethnicity


Race and
ethnicity have been identified as being a contributing factor to
increase rates of illness and death within in this social group.


Biologic and
genetic characteristics provide limited explanation for the prevalence
of various disparities where race and ethnicity is deemed plausible.
This plausible variance provides a basis for trending and comparison of
a specific ethnic groups disparities and their impact with those of the
general population, without creating an ideal “target group” of either
comparison group being evaluated or compared.


Geographical Location


Geographical data of a specific ethnic or minority group is categorized for data trending as either rural or urban.


Rural areas are
of consideration of evaluation due in part they generally have higher
rates of poverty, less formal education, lower wages, less health
insurance, and decreased access and limited health care services. All
of these factors create a significant problem for minorities and ethnic
groups who inhabit these areas and have a major overall impact on their
health and health outcomes.


Education and Income


Both of these
attributes are regarded as socioeconomic indicators. Many health
disparities and outcomes are attributed to the lack of both, and most
certainly manifest underlying or potential identified health
disparities in ethnic and minority groups. Poverty and a lack of
education have been implicated in a lack of adequate medical insurance
coverage, thus in turn accessibility to medical care is impeded.


Disability


Many different
disabilities exist and no specific category can be applied to minority
and ethnic groups. Evidenced base health promotion activities,
regardless of ethnic or minority group, are important in alleviating
some of the disparities created by various disabilities.


Identified
disabilities that have been researched in minority and ethnic groups
include depression, arthritis, cerebral palsy, diabetes, preventable
injuries, and alcohol use.


Reference: Healthy People 2010. “Eliminating Health Disparities” (2005). CDC&P


Charles E. Taylor is the Assistant Professor of Health/Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Western Carolina University.