An Analysis of Health Care Disparities and Subsequent Public Policy Initiatives

Abstract

Racial and ethnic health disparities are a major clinical, public health, and societal problem in the United States. This article provides a historical analysis of the identification and progression of health disparities between Whites and minorities from 1989 to 2011. Key causes of health disparities are addressed, including the lack of culturally competent care, health insurance, and medical homes. Federal legislation that mandated federal health agencies to implement a plan to eliminate disparities is discussed.

Keywords:

• Health disparities
• minority health
• federal legislation
• cultural competency
• public policy