Health system segregation

Date and country of first publication

2009
Israel

Definition

Health system segregation refers to the practice of separating individuals based on their health status or insurance coverage within the healthcare system. This can lead to disparities in access to healthcare services, with some individuals receiving better care than others based on arbitrary criteria.

Segregation in the health system can have negative consequences for patient outcomes, as those who are marginalized or discriminated against may not receive the same level of care or resources as others. It can also perpetuate inequalities in health outcomes and exacerbate existing disparities in healthcare access.

Efforts to address health system segregation include policies and initiatives aimed at promoting equitable access to healthcare services for all individuals, regardless of their health status or insurance coverage. This can help to ensure that everyone has equal access to quality healthcare and can receive the care they need to maintain their health and well-being.

Health system segregation appears in the following literature

Chernichovsky D., Martinez G., Aguilera N. (2009). Reforming "developing" health systems: Tanzania, Mexico, and the United States. Advances in Health Economics and Health Services Research, 21(), 313-338. https://doi.org/10.1108/S0731-2199(2009)0000021015