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Do we reap what we sow? Exploring the association between the strength of European primary healthcare systems and inequity in unmet need.

Do we reap what we sow? Exploring the association between the strength of European primary healthcare systems and inequity in unmet need.

  • January 3, 2017
  • Jens Detollenaere ,Lise Hanssens, Veerle Vyncke, Jan De Maeseneer, Sara Willems
  • Article

Healthcare access is inequitably distributed across socioeconomic groups, with vulnerable groups facing more barriers. Many countries strengthen primary care (PC) systems to address this, but its impact on overall healthcare access inequity is unclear. This study examines the association between PC strength and inequity in unmet need using European data. Findings show that higher income inequality (Gini coefficient) increases social inequity in unmet need. Improved PC accessibility and workforce development reduce this inequity. Policymakers should focus on reducing income inequality and strengthening PC to address unmet healthcare needs.

  • Source: PLoS ONE

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