MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'International Journal for Equity in Health' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:35:54 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5654250&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F11%2F1%2F5 Conclusions: Understanding nomadic Fulani beliefs about pabboje is useful for planning an acceptable community participatory fever management among them. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5654250 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5654250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641767&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F11%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: We explicitly distinguish, both conceptually and empirically, between income and economic exclusion, one of the main dimensions of social exclusion. Our results suggest that the economic exclusion index we use measures additional aspects of material deprivation that are not captured by income, such as the effective hardship or level of economic 'well-being'. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641767 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5641768&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F11%2F1%2F3 Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that individual-level social capital is associated with self-reported health, even after controlling for both individual and area-level confounders. Although this study did not find significant relationships between area-level organizational participation and self-reported health, this study found the cross-level interaction for social capital. Hence, in areas with lower organizational participation, the probability of reporting good/very good health is higher for individuals with high organizational participation than individuals with low organizational participation. This study, albeit tentatively, suggests that policy makers should focus upon social capital when making policies which aim to enhance one's health. (Source: International Journal for ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5641768 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5641768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5614749&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F11%2F1%2F2 China is a country with vast regional differences and uneven economic development, which have led to widening gaps between the rich and poor in terms of access to healthcare, quality of care, and health outcomes. China's healthcare reform efforts must be tailored to the needs and resources of each region and community. Building and strengthening primary care within the Chinese health care system is one way to effectively address health challenges. This paper begins by outlining the concept of primary care, including key definitions and measurements. Next, results from a number of studies will demonstrate that primary care characteristics are associated with savings in medical costs, improvements in health outcomes and reductions in health disparities. This paper concludes with recommendati... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5614749 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5614749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5565185&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F11%2F1%2F1 Conclusion: The health experience of the participants was affected by gender (in)equality in terms of a gendered work division. However, the participants did not see the gendered work division as a gender equality issue. Gender perspectives are needed to improve the health of the employees at the workplaces through shifting from individual to structural solutions. A healthy-setting approach considering gender relations is needed to achieve gender equality and fairness in health status between women and men. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5565185 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5565185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5555635&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F61 Progress towards the first Millennium Development Goal (MDG1) to end poverty and hunger has lagged behind attainment of other MDGs due to chronic poverty and worldwide inequity in access to adequate health care, food, clean water, and sanitation. Despite ongoing challenges, Rwanda has experienced economic progress and the expansion of the national public health system during the past 20 years. However, protein-energy malnutrition in children under five is still a major concern for physicians and government officials in Rwanda. Approximately 45% of children under the age of five in Rwanda suffer from chronic malnutrition, and one in four is undernourished. For years, health facilities in Rwanda have used incorrect growth references for measuring nutritional status of children despite the ad... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5555635 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5555635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5499538&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F60 Conclusions: Current uses of gender relations are typically positioned within intimate heterosexual couples whereby single narratives (i.e., either men or women) are used to explore the influence and /or impact of intimate partner gender relations on health and illness issues. Recommendations for advancing gender relations and health research are discussed. This research has the potential to reduce gender inequities in health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5499538 Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5499538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481348&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F59 Conclusions: We found sufficient amount of variations at community and district of residence on each of the three indicators of the use of maternal health services. For increasing the utilisation of these services in the state, in addition to individual-level, there is a strong need to identify and focus on community and district-level interventions. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481348 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5472439&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F58 Conclusions: Association between household wealth inequality and utilization of ANC and delivery assistance from medically trained personnel, institutional delivery, and counseling and testing for HIV/AIDS suggest that higher utilization of reproductive health care services in Vanuatu poor-rich inequalities need to be addressed. Reducing poverty and making services more available and accessible to the poor may be essential for improving overall reproductive health care utilization rate in Vanuatu. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5472439 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5472439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5463257&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F57 Conclusions: Demand-side financing projects using vouchers can be an effective way of reducing inequities in institutional delivery. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5463257 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5463257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5435719&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F56 Conclusion: Carefully constructed and translated survey questionnaires are practical tools for the collection of a breadth of migrant data. These data, including detailed accounts of countries lived in, length of time in those countries, immigration status, change in status, language fluency, and health insurance eligibility offer rich descriptions of the population under study and make research findings with regards to migration more interpretable. Analyses by a range of migration indicators are facilitated through survey-like questionnaire data of this type. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5435719 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5435719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5426363&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F55 Conclusion: The health equity approach of policy processes was incomprehensive, often inadequately coordinated, and largely ignored the right blend of socio-medical determinants. A multi-sectoral, unified and integrated approach is required with technical, financial and managerial resources from different actors for a comprehensive 'health equity approach'. If carefully geared, the ongoing health sector reforms centered on sector-wide approaches, decentralization, communitization and involvement of non-state actors can substantially control existing inequalities through an optimally packaged equitable policy. The stakeholders involved in the policy processes need to be given orientation on the concept of health equity and its linkage with socio-economic development. (Source: International ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5426363 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5426363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414803&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F53 Conclusions: The experiences of Romani women demonstrate psychosocial and structural pathways by which racism and discrimination affect access to prenatal and maternity care. Interventions to address maternal health inequalities should target barriers within all three levels of racism. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414803 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5414803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414802&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F54 Conclusions: The important roles of life endowments and/or persistent neurotoxicity were exemplified by limited change in the health outcome. Gradients by household assets and community deprivation were indicative of ongoing, structural inequities within this LMIC. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414802 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5414802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5509873&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F52 Conclusion: Neighbourhood-level gender inequality tended to be present in Québec, and varied across parts of the province. Greater awareness of and research on neighbourhood-level gender inequality may be warranted to inform gender policies in Québec and other nations. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5509873 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5509873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414804&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F52 Conclusion: Neighbourhood-level gender inequality tended to be present in Quebec, and varied across parts of the province. Greater awareness of and research on neighbourhood-level gender inequality may be warranted to inform gender policies in Quebec and other nations. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414804 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5414804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414805&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F51 Conclusion: We highlight the possible impacts of social capital, employment, and education on health, and suggest that health outcomes may be improved through interventions beyond the health system: creating job opportunities, strengthening social capital, bettering educational systems, and promoting educational access. Policymakers should consider the benefits of such programmes when addressing health outcomes in financially distressed districts. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414805 Tue, 15 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5414805 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5403665&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F50 Conclusion: There were inequities in use of the different providers, and also in expenditures on treatment. Reforms should aim to decrease barriers to access to public and formal health services and also identify constraints which impede the equitable distribution and access of public health services for the general population especially for poor people and rural dwellers. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5403665 Sun, 13 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5403665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5393993&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F48 Conclusion: The current burden and distribution of ill-health indicates how critical it is for the South African health system to strive for access to and use of health services that is in line with need for such care. Concerted government efforts, within both the health sector and other social and economic sectors are therefore needed to address the significant health inequalities in South Africa. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5393993 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5393993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5393992&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F49 Conclusions: PPM has improved case detection and treatment outcomes among patients seeking care with private providers. Evidence on reducing patient costs is inconclusive, and there is scope for increasing equity in access to care by systematically engaging those providers who are the primary agents for poor people seeking health care. Guidelines outlining which types of providers best contribute to achieving the four global objectives, along with the resources required by National Tuberculosis Programs for such engagement is needed. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5393992 Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5393992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5393994&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F47 Conclusions: Despite the government's efforts to improve the health of the poor, the rich-poor gap in health status and service access continues. Factors at institutional and policy levels are critical in contributing to the lack of efficiency and effectiveness for health programs that address the poor. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5393994 Wed, 09 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5393994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5341441&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F44 Conclusions: MFA needs to be improved further although it evidences the concern of the government for the poor rural people with major illness. Some ideas on how to improve MFA are put forward for future policy making. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5341441 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5341441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5341440&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F45 Conclusions: There is a struggle to put equity principles into practice, indicating will without enactment. Equity is not addressed systematically below strategic levels and equity does not shape funding decisions, program development, implementation and monitoring. Equity is not incentivized although examples of exceptional practice, driven by individuals, are evident across New Zealand. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5341440 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5341440 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5319400&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F43 Conclusions: The analyses indicate that the association of social relations and subjective health differs across SES groups as we find moderating effects of SES. However, results are inconsistent as nearly all RERI scores are positive but do not reach a significant level. Also moderating effects vary between women and men and depending on the indicators of SES and social relations used. Thus, the hypothesis of differential vulnerability can only partially be supported. In terms of practical implications, psychosocial and health interventions aiming towards the enhancement of social relations should especially consider the situation of the socially deprived. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5319400 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5319400 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5291144&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F42 IntroductionSurmang, Qinghai Province is a rural nomadic Tibetan region in western China recently devastated by the 2010 Yushu earthquake; little information is available on access and coverage of maternal and child health services. Methods: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted in August 2004. 402 women of reproductive age (15-50) were interviewed regarding their pregnancy history, access to and utilization of health care, and infant and child health care practices. Results: Women's access to education was low at 15% for any formal schooling; adult female literacy was (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5291144 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5291144 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5279424&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F41 Conclusion: The results suggest that reducing health inequalities across regions require a more equitable distribution of income and a higher level of average income and that the higher the region's average income, the smaller its health inequalities are. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5279424 Mon, 03 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5279424 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5266333&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F40 Conclusions: The analysis offers a continuum of dominant and counter discourses on health services access and equity as determined from a gender-based diversity perspective. The continuum of discourses offers a framework to identify and redress organizational assumptions about, and ideological commitments to, sexual and gender diversity and health services access and equity. Thus, the continuum of discourses may serve as an important element of a health care organization's access and equity framework for the evaluation of access to good quality care for diverse LGBT populations. More specfically, the analysis offers four important points of consideration in relation to the development of a health services access and equity frameworks. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5266333 Thu, 29 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5266333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5244193&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F39 Conclusion: Results showed that there were significant variations in the distribution of RHHs, CMR and CBR across the country. Moreover, the distribution of RHHs did not reflect the needs for health care in terms of CMR and CBR in the study period. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5244193 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5244193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201514&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F38 Conclusions: The current emphasis on achieving greater equity through PHC, the continued calls for the renewal and strengthening of PHC, and the use of monitoring and performance indicators highlight the relevance of ensuring that there are more accurate methods to capture the complex work of PHC organizations. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201514 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5167034&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F36 Socioeconomic inequalities in the average life span of different social strata in Southeastern Brazil have reduced due to the introduction of public policies leading to the improvement of living and health conditions. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5167034 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5167034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5167033&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F37 Conclusions: Men and women perceive and report gender equality differently. This means that it is necessary not only to be conscious of the methods and measurements used to quantify men's and women's opinions of gender equality, but also to be aware of the implications for health outcomes. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5167033 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5167033 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5167035&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F35 Background: This paper aims to compare the classification of race/skin color based on the discrete categories used by the Demographic Census of the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) and a skin color scale with values ranging from 1 (lighter skin) to 10 (darker skin), examining whether choosing one alternative or the other can influence measures of self-evaluation of health status, health care service utilization and discrimination in the health services. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study based on data from the World Health Survey carried out in Brazil in 2003 with a sample of 5000 individuals older than 18 years. Similarities between the two classifications were evaluated by means of correspondence analysis. The effect of the two classifications on health outcom... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5167035 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5167035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5152603&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F34 Conclusions: The highly significant beta-convergence across communities might be caused by (i) the efforts to harmonize and centralize the health policy at the federal level in Austria since the 1970s, (ii) the diminishing returns of the input factors in the health production function, which might lead to convergence, as the general conditions (e.g. income, education etc.) improve over time, and (iii) the mobility of people across regions, as people tend to move to regions/communities which exhibit more favorable living conditions. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5152603 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5152603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5152604&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F33 Conclusions: The study results do not offer support to the hypothesis that the increased role of the private commercial sector in the supply of contraceptive supplies led to increased inequity in modern contraceptive use. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5152604 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5152604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5101254&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F32 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5101254 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5101254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5084246&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F31 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5084246 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5084246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5067232&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F30 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5067232 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5067232 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5056218&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F29 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5056218 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5056218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5045995&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F28 ${item.shortDescription} (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5045995 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5045995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4989973&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F27 Human Papillomavirus vaccines are widely hailed as a sweeping pharmaceutical innovation for the universal benefit of all women. The implementation of the vaccines, however, is far from universal or equitable. Socio-economically marginalized women in emerging and developing, and many advanced economies alike, suffer a disproportionately large burden of cervical cancer. Despite the marketing of Human Papillomavirus vaccines as the solution to cervical cancer, the market authorization (licensing) of the vaccines has not translated into universal equitable access. Vaccine implementation for vulnerable girls and women faces multiple barriers that include high vaccine costs, inadequate delivery infrastructure, and lack of community engagement to generate awareness about cervical cancer and early... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4989973 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4989973 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929739&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F25 Conclusion Improved patient-doctor stability as well as better GP accessibility facilitated by the introduction of patient lists improved access to private specialist services. In particular the less well off benefited from this reform. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929739 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909057&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F24 Conclusions: HIV/AIDS and human resources stakeholders must address occupational segregation and the underlying gender essentialism and male primacy if there is to be more equitable sharing of the HIV/AIDS caregiving burden and any long-term solution to health worker shortages. Policymakers, activists and programmers must redress the persistent disadvantages faced by the mostly female caregiving workforce and the gendered economic, psychological, and social impacts entailed in HIV/AIDS caregiving. Research on gender desegregation of HIV/AIDS caregiving is needed. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909057 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4881910&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F23 Conclusion: During the last decades, North African decision makers have endeavoured to improve social and economic conditions of their populations. Globally, health, education and living standard in general have substantially improved in average. However, North African countries have still a long way to go to reduce social inequalities and health inequity at different levels: rural-urban, advantaged-marginalised regions and cities, between groups of different level of income and wealth. The challenge for the next decade is not only to improve economic, social and health conditions in average but also and mainly to reduce avoidable inequalities in parallel. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4881910 Mon, 30 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4881910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4869250&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F22 Conclusions: The Kenyan health system is highly inequitable and policies aimed at promoting equity and addressing the needs of the poor and vulnerable have not been successful. Some progress has been made towards addressing equity challenges, but universal coverage will not be achieved unless the country adopts a systemic approach to health financing reforms. Such an approach should be informed by the wider health system goals of equity and efficiency. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4869250 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4869250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4859664&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F21 Conclusions: The results highlight the poor health-related quality of life of women prisoners and highlight the scale of the challenge faced by those providing health care to prisoners. They also draw attention to the major health disadvantages of women offenders compared to women in general. While recent reforms may improve health services for prisoners, broader inequalities in the health of women are a more complex challenge. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4859664 Tue, 24 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4859664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4846120&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F20 Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) usually undertaken between the ages of 1-9 years and is widely practised in some part of Africa and by migrants from African countries in other parts of the world. Laws prohibit FGM in almost every country. FGM can cause immediate complications (pain, bleeding and infection) and delayed complications (sexual, obstetric, psychological problems). Several factors have been associated with an increased likelihood of FGM. In Burkina Faso, the prevalence of FGM appears to have increased in recent years. Methods: We investigated social, demographic and economic factors associated with FGM in Burkina Faso using the 2003 Demographic Health Survey (DHS). The DHS is a nationally representative cross-sectional survey (multistage stratified random sampling of... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4846120 Tue, 17 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4846120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4818188&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F19 Conclusions: The Mexican-origin population is rapidly expanding; record numbers of individuals and families are experiencing food insecurity; and for those living in rural or underserved areas such as the colonias, the worst forms of food insecurity are an ongoing reality. The rates of households with adult and child food insecurity in this border area are alarming and among the highest reported. Clearly, systematic and sustained action on federal, state, and community levels is needed to reduce household, adult, and child food insecurity that integrates cultural tailoring of interventions and programs to address food and management skills, multi-sector partnerships and networks, expansion of food and nutrition assistance programs, and enhanced research efforts. (Source: International Jour... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4818188 Thu, 12 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4818188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4800830&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F17 Conclusions: Engagement in carework precipitated a process of identity and value transformation in some men suggesting that support for carework still deserves to be a goal of interventions to 'change men'. Changing the gender of carework contributes to a more equitable gender division of labour and challenges gender stereotypes. Interventions that promote caring also advance gender equity. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4800830 Sun, 08 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4800830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4751900&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F16 Background: Equal utilization of health services for equal need, is one of the main targets for public health systems. Given the public-private structure of the Greek NHS, the main aim of the study was to investigate the impact of underlying factors, such as health care needs, socio-demographic characteristics and ethnicity, on the utilization of primary and hospital health care in an urban and rural population of the Greek region, Thessaly. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in 2006 in Thessaly, a Greek region of Central Greece, in a representative sample of 1372 individuals (18+ years old, response rate 91.4%) via face-to-face interview. Health care needs were determined by self-perceived health status estimated by the SF-36 Health Survey, using the summary scores of physic... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4751900 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4751900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740320&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F15 Inequity is the presence of systematic and potentially remediable differences among population groups defined socially, economically, or geographically. It is not the same as inequality, which is a much broader term, generally used in the human rights field to describe differences among individuals some of which are not remediable (at least with current knowledge). Some languages do not make the distinction between the two terms, which may lead to confusion and a need to clarify exact meaning in different contexts. Some people use the term "unfairness" to define inequity, but unfairness is not measurable and therefore not a useful term for policy or evaluation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740320 Tue, 19 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4722184&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F14 Conclusions: Alleviating the price barrier to care is a fundamental part of improving equity in dental care in Canada. How people have historically spent money on dental care highlights important gaps in Canadian dental care policy. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4722184 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4722184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4674743&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F13 Conclusion: This study provides evidence that socio-economic inequalities are highly prevalent within the relatively poor black population. Poor socio-economic position exposes infants to ill health. In addition, the use of immunisation services was lower in the poor households. These inequalities need to be explicitly addressed in future programme planning to improve child health for all South Africans. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4674743 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4674743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4526996&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F11 June 2010 marked the 10th Anniversary of the foundation meeting of the International Society for Equity in Health (ISEqH). he formation of the Society was a bold statement, with ambitions to be a global body "to promote equity in health and health services internationally through education, research, publication, communication and charitable support"[1]. The Society particularly aimed to be an organisation that facilitated research on how better to understand and address inequities in health. The main activities of the Society have been a series of biannual conferences as well as the establishment of the International Journal for Equity in Health, the official (but independent) publication of the Society. This paper sets out to record some of the milestones of the Society drawing on the re... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4526996 Sun, 27 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4526996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4458474&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F10 Conclusions: Inequality in participation in alcohol consumption is pro-rich in Sweden. This inequality has tended to decrease over time, due to changes in population composition rather than to policy intervention. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4458474 Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4458474 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4435636&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F8 ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore inequities in knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding tuberculosis (TB) among the urban and rural populations.DesignA cross-sectional study was conducted in two districts of Pakistan's Punjab province. The 1080 subjects aged 20 years and above, including 432 urban and 648 rural respondents, were randomly selected using multistage cluster sampling and interviewed after taking verbal informed consent. Logistic regression was used to calculate the crude odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for the urban area. The differences in knowledge, attitudes, practices and information sources between the urban and rural respondents were highlighted using Pearson chi-square test and Fisher's exact test. Results: The study revealed poor know... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4435636 Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4435636 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4431946&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F7 Conclusions: The results indicate that the broader socioeconomic context in Norwegian regions has a substantial impact both on mortality and on the level of income disparities. However, the results also suggest, in a way compatible with the psychosocial interpretation, that on top of the general socioeconomic influences, a higher level of income inequality adds independently to higher mortality levels.Previous publicationThis article is a reworked version of the study 'Er inntektsforskjeller dodelige?' [Are income inequalities lethal?] which was published in Norwegian in Tidsskrift for velferdsforskning [Journal for welfare research], Vol. 13 (4), 2010. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4431946 Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4431946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4417592&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F6 Conclusions: This EFHIA was conducted in a short timeframe using relatively few resources. It had some reported impacts on the development of the implementation plan and enhanced overall consideration of health equity. This case highlights some of the factors and preconditions that may maximise the impact of future EFHIAs on decision-making and implementation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4417592 Sun, 30 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4417592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4397930&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F5 Conclusion: The results show a strong association between the residents' number of life resources and their self-rated health. In this study, we were not able to identify any association between ethnicity and self-rated health, i.e. our results suggest that ethnicity does not constitute an explanation to differences in self- rated health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4397930 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4397930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4368788&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: Findings from this study confirm the positive financial protection effect of health insurance in Ghana. The effect is stronger among the poor group than among general population. The results are encouraging for many low income countries who are considering a similar policy to expand social health insurance. Ghana's experience also shows that instituting insurance by itself is not adequate to remove fully the out-of-pocket payment for health. Further works are needed to address the supply side's incentives and quality of care, so that the insured can enjoy the full benefits of insurance. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4368788 Wed, 19 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4368788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4359478&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F3 Conclusions: Although a variety of intersections between race, gender, class, and sexual orientation were associated with especially high risks of fair/poor self-rated health, they were not all consistent with the predictions of intersectionality theory. I conclude that an intersectionality theory well suited for explicating health inequalities in Canada should be capable of accommodating axis intersections of multiple kinds and qualities. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4359478 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4359478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4348245&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F10%2F1%2F2 Conclusion: These results showed that two varying views related to visibility factors that expose patients to stigmatization (one characterized by TB stigma, the other by the view that TB patients should queue with other chronically ill patients) are associated with opposing attitudes and preferences towards TB treatment. These opposing attitudes complicate treatment outcomes, and suggest that complex behaviours must be taken into account when designing health policy. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4348245 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4348245 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4211446&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F28 Conclusions: Community identification of beneficiaries is feasible in a fragile state. Several recommendations are discussed to improve targeting accuracy of a waiver card system in the future, in light of this research and other international experiences. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4211446 Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4211446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4199268&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F27 This review investigates the health of immigrants to Canada by critically examining differences in health status between immigrants and the native-born population and by tracing how the health of immigrants changes after settling in the country. Fifty-one published empirical studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. The analysis focuses on four inter-related questions: (1) Which health conditions show transition effects and which do not? (2) Do health transitions vary by ethnicity / racialized identity? (3) How are health transitions influenced by socioeconomic status? and (4) How do compositional and contextual factors interact to affect the health of immigrants? Theoretical and methodological challenges facing this area of research are discussed and future directions are identi... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4199268 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4199268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4185709&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F26 Conclusions: Despite pharmaceutical policy's long entwinement with issues of sex and gender, and the emergence of international guidelines for inclusion of SGBA in health research, the community of pharmaceutical policy researchers has not internalized, or "mainstreamed" the practice. Increased application of SGBA is, in most cases, not only appropriate for the topics under investigation, but well within the reach of today's pharmaceutical policy researchers. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4185709 Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4185709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4137664&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F25 Background: In resource-poor countries, such as Solomon Islands, the research agenda on health is often dominated by researchers from resource-rich countries. New strategies are needed to empower local researchers to set directions for health research. This paper presents a process which seeks to enable a local and potentially more equitable research agenda at a remote hospital in Solomon Islands. Methods: In preparation for a health research capacity-building workshop at Atoifi Adventist Hospital, Malaita, Solomon Islands, a computer-based search was conducted of Solomon Islands public health literature. Using a levels-of-agreement approach publications were categorised as: a) original research, b) reviews, c) program descriptions and d) commentaries or discussion. Original research publi... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4137664 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4137664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4130320&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F24 Conclusions: Given its positive and negative effects on the health care systems of departure and destination countries, medical tourism is a highly significant and contested phenomenon. This is especially true given its potential to serve as a powerful force for the inequitable delivery of health care services globally. It is recommended that empirical evidence and other data associated with medical tourism be subjected to clear and coherent definitions, including reports focused on the flows of medical tourists and surgery success rates. Additional primary research on the effects of medical tourism is needed if the industry is to develop in a manner that is beneficial to citizens of both departure and destination countries. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4130320 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4130320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4063893&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F23 Conclusion: Under the current NHIS design, the initial low coverage in the first years will inhibit optimal achievement of the important equity characteristics of pooling, cross-subsidisation and financial protection. Depending on the distribution of accredited providers and utilisation patterns, the NHIS could worsen existing disparities in access to services, given the fee-for-service reimbursement mechanisms currently proposed. Lastly, if equity in financing and resource allocation are not explicit objectives of the NHIS, it might inadvertently worsen the existing disparities in service provision. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4063893 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100 4063893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3931707&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F21 Conclusion: Our analysis highlights the importance of monitoring progress on MDGs at sub-national level and measuring inequality gaps to accurately target health and inter-sectoral policies. Further efforts are required to improve the measurement and monitoring of trends in neonatal and under five mortality at sub-national level, particularly in developing countries and countries with large socioeconomic inequalities. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3931707 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3931707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3857147&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F19 Background: Despite recent achievement in economic progress in India, the fruit of development has failed to secure a better nutritional status among all children of the country. Growing evidence suggest there exists a socio-economic gradient of childhood malnutrition in India. The present paper is an attempt to measure the extent of socio-economic inequality in chronic childhood malnutrition across major states of India and to realize the role of household socio-economic status (SES) as the contextual determinant of nutritional status of children. Methods: Using National Family Health Survey-3 data, an attempt is made to estimate socio-economic inequality in childhood stunting at the state level through Concentration Index (CI). Multi-level models; random-coefficient and random-slope are ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3857147 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3857147 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3857146&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F20 Conclusions: While most studies found educational and gender inequalities to be associated with income, there might also be effects induced solely by education; for example, an unhealthy lifestyle leading to higher payments for lower-educated people, or exclusively gender-induced effects, like sex-specific illnesses. Based on the considered studies, an explanation for inequalities in OOPP by these factors remains ambiguous. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3857146 Tue, 10 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3857146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3853227&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F18 Conclusions: The socioeconomic patterning of asthma among Indigenous Australians is much less pronounced than for other chronic diseases such as diabetes and kidney disease, and contrasts with asthma patterns in the non-Indigenous population. This may be due in part to the episodic nature of asthma, and the well-known challenges in diagnosing it, especially among people with limited health literacy and/or limited access to health care, both of which are more likely in the Indigenous population. It may also reflect the importance of exposures occurring across the socioeconomic spectrum among Indigenous Australians, such as racism, and discrimination, marginalization and dispossession, chronic stress and exposure to violence. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3853227 Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3853227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3720828&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F17 Conclusions: Our analysis shows that seemingly pro-poor income-related inequalities in ambulatory care use were largely due to greater health care need among low-income groups. The results demonstrate different contributions of determinants to income-related inequalities and variation in horizontal inequities by subgroup and locale. The findings of this study should help identify targets for policy intervention for each rural and non-rural area. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3720828 Thu, 01 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3720828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3654872&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F15 Background: It can be assumed that resettlers (ethnic German immigrants from the Former Soviet Union) show similar smoking patterns as persons in their countries of origin at the time of migration. We analysed how the smoking prevalence among resettlers differs from that among the general population of Germany and whether the prevalence differs between groups with increasing duration of stay. Methods: To estimate the smoking prevalence we used the scientific-use-file (n=477,239) of the German 2005 microcensus, an annual census representing 1% of all German households. Participation in the microcensus is obligatory (unit-nonresponse (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3654872 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3654872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3647132&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com Conclusions: This study showed the significance of individual factors in increasing the risk of unintended pregnancy, while the role of community factors was found to be negligible. In order for all women to be able to realize their right to reproductive autonomy, there needs to be a diverse range of solutions, with particular attention paid to cultural issues. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3647132 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3647132 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3598121&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F13 Conclusions: This study has demonstrated a pervasiveness of 'behavioural' and 'biomedical' perspectives, and a lack of consideration afforded to the roles and responsibilities of municipal governments, among the health inequities scholarly community. Thus, despite considerable research activity over the past two decades, the 'health inequities knowledge base' inadequately reflects the complex aetiology of, and solutions to, population health inequities. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3598121 Mon, 24 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3598121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3470621&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F11 Conclusions: The lowest quintiles of expenditures per adult have less of an ability to pay out-of-pocket for healthcare, and yet incur healthcare expenditures more often than the wealthy. They have lower rates of insurance coverage, causing them to spend a larger proportion of their expenditures on health, and further confirming our results on the vulnerability of the bottom quintiles. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3470621 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3470621 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3452184&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F10 This study explores the use of a multidimensional approach to SEP, in which socioeconomic inequalities in contraceptive use are investigated along multiple dimensions of SEP. We tested the hypothesis that provision of Public capital compensated for low levels of Human capital. Methods: This study used the 2005 Colombian Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) dataset. The outcome measures were 'current non-use' and 'never use' of contraception. Inequalities in contraceptive behaviour along four measures of SEP were compared: the Household wealth index (HWI), Physical capital (housing, consumer durables), Public capital (publicly provided services) and Human capital (level of education). Principal component analysis was applied to construct the HWI, Physical capital and Public capital measures.... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3452184 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3452184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3372769&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F8 Conclusion: Among different types of network resources, close and strong friendship-based ties are of importance for people's health in Norway. Networks linking people to high-educated persons are also of importance. Measures aiming at strengthening these types of network resources for socially disadvantaged groups might reduce social inequalities in health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3372769 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3372769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3297161&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F7 Conclusion: The coverage of NRCMS among the rural population was high but not adequate to improve access to in-patient care and protect against financial catastrophe and household impoverishment due to health payment, especially for the poor and the chronically ill. Furthermore, MFA played almost no such role; therefore, the current schemes need to be improved. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3297161 Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3297161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3297162&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F6 Conclusions: While single employed mothers did experience higher levels of psychological distress than their partnered counterparts, differences between these groups of women in income adequacy, psychosocial work quality, and work-family conflict were found to explain this relationship. Future research employing a longitudinal design and subject to lower selection biases is required to tease out the interrelationship of these three life strains and to point to the most appropriate economic and social policies to support single mothers in the workforce. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3297162 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3297162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3265678&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F5 Women's health research strives to make change. It seeks to produce knowledge that promotes action on the variety of factors that affect women's lives and their health. As part of this general movement, important strides have been made to raise awareness of the health effects of sex and gender. The resultant base of knowledge has been used to inform health research, policy, and practice. Increasingly, however, the need to pay better attention to the inequities among women that are caused by racism, colonialism, ethnocentrism, heterosexism, and able-bodism is confronting feminist health researchers and activists. Researchers are seeking new conceptual frameworks that can transform the design of research to produce knowledge that captures how systems of discrimination or subordination overla... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3265678 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3265678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3207317&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: California commercial health plan enrollees rate their experiences of care similarly to enrollees in the rest of the nation when seven different variables including race/ethnicity are considered. These findings support accounting for more than just age, gender and general health rating before comparing health plans from one state to another. Reporting on race/ethnicity disparities in member experiences of care could raise awareness and increase accountability for reducing these racial and ethnic disparities. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3207317 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3207317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3196544&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F9%2F1%2F2 Conclusions: Health service managers typically monitor service utilisation patterns as indicators of access but often pay little attention to ways in which locally determined system factors influence access to care. The paper shows how a hospital selection process can unreasonably influence patients' opportunities to benefit from an evidence-based healthcare program. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3196544 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3196544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3113804&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F45 This study explored the socioeconomic and geographic differences in incidence and burden of malaria as well as ownership of mosquito nets. Methods: Structured questionnaires were used to collect information from 1657 respondents from rural and urban communities in southeast Nigeria on: incidence of malaria, number of days lost to malaria; actions to treat malaria and household ownership of insecticide treated and untreated mosquito nets. Data was compared across socio-economic status (SES) quartiles and between urban and rural dwellers. Results: There was statistically significant urban-rural difference in malaria occurrence with malaria occurring more amongst urban dwellers. There was more reported occurrence of malaria amongst children and other adult household members in better-off SES ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3113804 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3113804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3069929&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F41 Conclusions: These results from a large data set are consistent with the idea that neighbourhood socio-economic resources may affect individual mortality, but suggest that distinctions according to population size or density be made in future research and that one should be careful, if focusing on cities, to generalize beyond that setting. With these data, one can only speculate about the reasons for the rural-urban difference. A stronger higher-level spatial segregation in urban areas may be one explanation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3069929 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3069929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3069928&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F42 Conclusions: A significant proportion of patients with chronic diseases face catastrophic healthcare costs and these are especially heavy for the poor. The NCMS offers only a limited degree of financial protection. The heavy financial burden of healthcare for chronic disease poses an urgent challenge to the NCMS. There is an urgent need for a clear policy on how to offer financial protection to those with chronic disease. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3069928 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3069928 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3002567&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F40 The past decade witnessed great progress in research on health inequities. The most widely cited definition of health inequity is, arguably, the one proposed by Whitehead and Dahlgren: "Health inequalities that are avoidable, unnecessary, and unfair are unjust." We argue that this definition is useful but in need of further clarification because it is not linked to broader theories of justice. We propose an alternative, pluralist notion of fair distribution of health that is compatible with several theories of distributive justice. Our proposed view consists of the weak principle of health equality and the principle of fair trade-offs. The weak principle of health equality offers an alternative definition of health equity to those proposed in the past. It maintains the all-encompassing nat... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3002567 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3002567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2983857&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F39 Conclusions: Although overall utilization of public and PNFP services by rural and poor populations had increased, PFP remained the major source of care. The odds of not seeking care due to distance decreased in rural areas but cost continued to be an important barrier to seeking health services for residents from poor, rural, and elderly headed households. Policy makers should consider targeting subsidies to the poor and rural populations. Public private partnerships should be broadened to increase access to health services among the vulnerable. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2983857 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2983857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2946011&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F37 Conclusions: Reducing Indigenous smoking need not be considered exceptionally difficult. Inequities in the distribution of smoking related-deaths and illness may be reduced by increasing the exposure and access of Indigenous Australians, and other disadvantaged groups with high smoking prevalence, to proven tobacco control strategies. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2946011 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2946011 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2922574&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F36 Conclusions: The flat fee policy was found to reduce cost barriers for some households but, given the generalized poverty in the area, the fee still posed a significant financial burden. This report showed the limits of a programme of fee exemption for indigent households and a flat fee for others in a context of widespread poverty. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2922574 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2922574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2868000&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F34 Conclusions: Cost-based weights have the potential to provide a pragmatic method of equity weight construction which is both understandable to policy makers and sensitive to the needs of target groups. It could improve the evidence base for resource allocation decisions, and be generalised to other disadvantaged groups who share similar concepts of equity. Development of this decision-making tool represents a potentially important avenue for further health economics research. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2868000 Tue, 06 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2868000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2740306&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F32 Conclusion: We found some evidence that the magnitude of relative inequalities in mortality and morbidity is negatively correlated with underlying morbidity prevalence and mortality rates. Although correlations are moderate, underlying morbidity prevalence and mortality rates should be taken into account in the interpretation of variations in relative health inequalities among populations. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2740306 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2740306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2663598&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F28 During the last decades research has reported unmotivated differences in the treatment of women and men in various areas of clinical and academic medicine. There is an ongoing discussion on how to avoid such gender bias. We developed a three-step-theoretical model to understand how gender bias in medicine can occur and be understood. In this paper we present the model and discuss its usefulness in the efforts to avoid gender bias. In the model gender bias is analysed in relation to assumptions concerning difference/sameness and equity/inequity between women and men. Our model illustrates that gender bias in medicine can arise from assuming sameness and/or equity between women and men when there are genuine differences to consider in biology and disease, as well as in life conditions and ex... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2663598 Sun, 02 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2663598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2656281&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F27 Conclusion: Considering the relatively low cost of a comprehensive hospital programme including outreach services and the lower mortality ratios found in the catchment area of the hospital, we argue that donor funds should be used for supporting horizontal programmes aimed at comprehensive healthcare services. Through a strengthening of the collaboration between government and voluntary agency facilities, with clinical, preventive and managerial capabilities of the health facilities, the programmes will have a more sustainable impact and will achieve greater progress in the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality, as opposed to vertical and segregated programmes that currently are commonly adopted for averting maternal and child deaths. Thus, we conclude that horizontal and comprehens... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2656281 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2656281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2619519&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F26 Conclusions: We present the first representative data on changes in the prevalence of a risk factor for many chronic diseases among Turkish migrants in Germany. Male Turkish migrants (with a high level of education) showed a decrease over the generations while smoking prevalences of female Turkish migrants increased. In the second generation, prevalences partly converged with those of the German reference population or were even higher. Our hypothesis - that migration can be interpreted as a "health transition" - was thus partly confirmed. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2619519 Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2619519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2600412&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F25 Conclusions: The differential patterning of social resources may explain or contribute to the persisting inequities in health care utilization. Additional research using quantitative analytical methods is needed to test the robustness of the contribution of social resources to the utilization of and access to healthcare services. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2600412 Mon, 13 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2600412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2555131&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F24 Conclusions: Our research illustrates the complexity of the problems the Roma face. Access to health care cannot be discussed in isolation from other problems this population group experiences, such as poverty, restricted access to education, and social exclusion. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2555131 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2555131 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2498970&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F23 The causes of wide variation in the rates of HIV and AIDS epidemics among Japanese and non-Japanese nationals are not well understood. So, this paper examines the associations and assesses the potential roles of mean age at marriage, and migration in the HIV and AIDS epidemics in Japan. For the purpose, bivariate and multivariate regression analysis have been performed using epidemiological panel data to build up the relationships among overall HIV and AIDS prevalence, mean age at marriage, and migration. The same analyses have done for non-Japanese nationals living with HIV and AIDS separately. These indicators were significantly correlated with mean age at marriage, and migration. Multivariate linear regression analysis identified non-Japanese nationals' HIV and AIDS prevalence and mean ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2498970 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2498970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2454226&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F21 Conclusions: Analyses of this type have usually been applied across the population spectrum from richest to poorest, and we were struck by the regularly stepped picture of inequalities within the urban poor, a group that might inadvertently be considered relatively homogeneous. The poorest slum residents are more dependent upon public sector health care, but the regular progression towards the private sector raises questions about its quality and regulation. It also underlines the need for healthcare provision strategies to take account of both sectors. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2454226 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2454226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2454225&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F22 Conclusions: There are significant differences in under-five child malnutrition that favour the better-off of society as a whole and all geopolitical regions. Like other studies have reported, reliance on global averages alone can be misleading. Thus there is a need for evaluating policies not only in terms of improvements in averages, but also improvements in distribution. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2454225 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2454225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2438634&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F20 Conclusions: The results indicate that the Health Care Fund for the Poor is meeting its objectives of increasing utilization and reducing out-of-pocket expenditure for the program's target population, despite numerous administrative problems resulting in delayed and only partial implementation in most provinces. The main lessons for low and middle-income countries from Vietnam's early experiences with the Health Care Fund for the Poor are that it managed to achieve positive outcomes in a short time-period, the need to ensure adequate and sustained funding for targeted programs, including marginal administrative costs, develop effective targeting mechanisms and systems for informing beneficiaries and providers about the program, respond to the increased demand for health care generated by t... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2438634 Wed, 27 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2438634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2411369&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F16 Conclusions: The use of a participatory method proved to be a useful approach that could benefit other urban centres in their analysis of social determinants of health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2411369 Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2411369 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2411368&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F17 Conclusions: - The study found social inequality in daily smoking in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and United Kingdom, as well as inequalities in students' academic achievement and school satisfaction. The analyses also showed that above average academic achievement was associated with lower OR of smoking. Teachers and politicians may find this information useful, and allocate resources to give higher priority to a supportive environment in schools especially for children and adolescents in lower social groups. Subsequently this prioritisation might contribute to reducing smoking in this group. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2411368 Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2411368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2401867&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F15 Conclusions: We conclude that reducing user fees in primary health care in Kenya is a policy on paper that is yet to be implemented fully. We recommend that caution be taken when deciding on how to reduce or abolish user fees and that all potential consequences are carefully considered. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2401867 Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2401867 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2395482&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F14 In conclusion, we stress the need for continued attention to sex and gender in health research. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2395482 Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2395482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2395483&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F13 Conclusion: To promote equitable access for CT and ART in Malawi there is need to further invest in human resources for health, and seize opportunities to integrate CT and ART services with tuberculosis, sexually transmitted infections and maternal health services. This should not only promote access to services but also ensure that resources available for CT and ART strengthen rather than undermine the provision of the essential health package in Malawi. Ongoing equity analysis of services is important in analyzing which groups are unrepresented in services and developing initiatives to address these. Creative models of decentralization, whilst maintaining quality of services are needed to further enhance access of poor rural women, men, girls and boys. (Source: International Journal for ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2395483 Tue, 05 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2395483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2379405&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: The New Zealand Smokefree Environments Amendment Act had a range of positive effects, including reducing SHS exposure among Maori communities. If the experience is replicated in other countries with indigenous populations, it suggests that comprehensive smokefree environments legislation will have beneficial effects on the health of indigenous groups and could contribute to reducing inequalities in health within societies. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2379405 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2379405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2337940&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F11 Background: Access to affordable health care is limited in many low and middle income countries and health systems are often inequitable, providing less health services to the poor who need it most. The aim of this study was to investigate health seeking behavior and utilization of drugs in relation to household socioeconomic status for children in two small Amazonian urban communities of Peru; Yurimaguas, Department of Loreto and Moyobamba, Department of San Martin, Peru. Methods: Cross-sectional study design included household interviews. Caregivers of 780 children aged 6-72 months in Yurimaguas and 793 children of the same age in Moyobamba were included in the study. Caregivers were interviewed on health care seeking strategies (public/private sectors formal/informal providers), and me... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2337940 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2337940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2319956&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: Recognition of emerging health issues is needed along with improved inter and intrasectoral coordination among stakeholders. The community-participatory approach used in this paper proved to be a useful scoping technique for this setting. A similar methodology could be used by other researchers as a first step toward health equity action at a city level. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2319956 Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2319956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2319954&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F10 Background: Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality. In the developed nations where the burden from infectious diseases is lower, the burden of disease from tobacco use is especially magnified. Understanding the factors that may be associated with adolescent cigarette smoking may aid in the design of prevention programs. Methods: A secondary analysis of the 2004 United States National Youth Tobacco Survey was carried out to estimate the association between current cigarette smoking and selected smoking-related variables. Study participants were recruited from middle and high schools in the United States. Logistic regression analysis using SUDAAN software was conducted to estimate the association between smoking and the following explanatory variables: age, sex... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2319954 Fri, 03 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2319954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293661&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F8 Conclusions: A primary care systems questionnaire administered to different types of health professionals was able to show that resource distribution was equitable at a national level but some aspects of primary care practice across regions is still of concern, in at least in this transitional country. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293661 Thu, 26 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2293661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293663&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F7 Conclusion: Despite concentration indices used in this study, the analysis reflected the family's socioeconomic position in Bangladesh context, showing a very strong statistical association with child mortality. Due to existing socioeconomic situation in Bangladesh, the poor children were more vulnerable to injury occurrence. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293663 Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2293663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2254829&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F6 Conclusions: The results found that men and women with diabetes face different challenges in the management of their condition. Public health implications include a need for quality surveillance data, including epidemiological life course, social, behavioural, genetic and environmental factors. This will enrich the evidence base for health promotion professionals and allow policy makers to draw inferences and conclusions for interventions and planning purposes. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2254829 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2254829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2230537&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F5 Conclusions: The problem of a doctor shortage in Japan is linked to both the shortage of absolute number of physicians and the mal-distribution of hospital physicians. The new postgraduate internship system might worsen this situation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2230537 Tue, 03 Mar 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2230537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2220542&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: In the UK, education appears to be an effective variable for measuring variation in SEP across ethnic groups but the ability to account for SEP differences may be improved by the addition of car and home ownership, ability to obtain 10 000, loaning money to family/friends and income from employment/self employment. Further research is required to establish the degree to which results of this study are generalisable. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2220542 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2220542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2208750&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F3 Conclusions: Overall, the findings of this study provided empirical evidence that social inequality negatively influences health through a differential exposure and an unequal distribution of resources across the class spectrum: the lower the social class, the poorer the perception of health. The results also showed that living in more deprived regions had a further negative effect on health. From a policy perspective, the gradient effects of social class suggest that non-targeted policies should be designed to address both material conditions at the individual level as well as deprived living conditions at higher levels of aggregation to improve health across the social spectrum. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2208750 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2208750 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2186173&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F2 Conclusions: In this study, we have shown that the interaction effect between poverty and lack of social capital (NC and RSS) was a good predictor of poor SRH in urban China. Improving NC and RSS may be helpful in reducing health inequity; however, poverty reduction is more important and therefore should be implemented at the same time. Policies that attempt to improve health equity via social capital, but neglect poverty intervention, would be counter-productive. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2186173 Sun, 15 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2186173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2091708&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F8%2F1%2F1 Conclusion: We found that mother's use of traditional healer services was negatively associated with vaccination of Haitian children. Findings from this study underscore the potential to enlist the support of traditional healers in promoting child health by educating, mentoring them (the traditional healers) in supporting vaccination efforts. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2091708 Thu, 08 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2091708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2064359&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F27 Conclusions: Both individual characteristics, supposedly linked to the personality, like low self-efficacy, and factors related to the actual life situation, like economic problems and a feeling of powerlessness, contribute to the social gradient in mental health, and both aspects should be addressed in preventive work. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2064359 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2064359 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2050833&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F26 Conclusions: This study indicates preliminary support for the validity of the caring for country concept and a questionnaire designed to measure it. This study also highlights the importance of investigating Indigenous-asserted health promotion activities. Further studies in similar populations are merited to test the generalisability of this questionnaire and to explore associations with other important Indigenous health outcomes. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2050833 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2050833 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2031565&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F25 Conclusions: Material deprivation was the most influential predictor of self-rated health. Thus, social reforms to decrease the gap between the rich and poor were recommended as a powerful tool for reducing health inequalities and improving the health status of the population. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2031565 Fri, 12 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2031565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1973313&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F24 Conclusion: The tenacity of pervasive intra-country socioeconomic disparities in child health calls for attention by policy makers and health practitioners. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1973313 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1973313 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1927529&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F23 Conclusions: Schoolchildren's health insurance enrollment to and retention in the low-premium cooperative schemes are threatened by their limited tangible value for routine care as well as low reimbursement rate for major medical events. Coverage rates may be improved by offering complimentary and supplementary benefit options with flexible premiums via a multi-tier system consisting of national, regional, and commercial programs. Health insurance education by means of community outreach can reinforce positive parental perceptions, hence promoting and retaining insurance enrollment in short-term. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1927529 Mon, 03 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1927529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1828453&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F22 Trafficking in women and children is a gross violation of human rights. However, this does not prevent an estimated 800 000 women and children to be trafficked each year across international borders. Eighty per cent of trafficked persons end in forced sex work. India has been identified as one of the Asian countries where trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation has reached alarming levels. While there is a considerable amount of internal trafficking from one state to another or within states, India has also emerged as a international supplier of trafficked women and children to the Gulf States and South East Asia, as well as a destination country for women and girls trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation from Nepal and Bangladesh. Trafficking for commercial sexual exploitatio... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1828453 Thu, 25 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1828453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1770186&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F21 Conclusion: It was possible to detect gender differences in the blinded illness narratives. The students' explanations for their choice of sex agreed with common gender stereotypes implying that such stereotypes correspond, at least on a group level, to differences in male and female patients' illness descriptions. However, it was also obvious that preconceptions about gender obstructed and biased the interpretations, a finding with implications for the understanding of gender bias in clinical practice. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1770186 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1770186 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1712969&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F21 Conclusion: It was possible to detect gender differences in the blinded illness narratives. The students' explanations for their choice of sex agreed with common gender stereotypes implying that such stereotypes correspond, at least on a group level, to differences in male and female patients' illness descriptions. However, it was also obvious that preconceptions about gender obstructed and biased the interpretations, a finding with implications for the understanding of gender bias in clinical practice. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1712969 Mon, 18 Aug 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1712969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1663020&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F20 Conclusions: This study uncovers endemic sexual abuse of male children that was suspected but hitherto only poorly documented. Legal recognition of the criminality of rape of male children is a first step. The next steps include serious investment in supporting male victims of abuse, and in prevention of all childhood sexual abuse. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1663020 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1663020 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1654539&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F19 Conclusions: Although subjective health predicted mortality, the predictors of these two outcomes differed. Influences on subjective health other than serious disease and risk factors for relatively sudden deaths in apparently well people may be important, but require further research. Meanwhile, caution is required when using findings studies of self-rated health in Russia to understand the determinants of mortality. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1654539 Fri, 25 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1654539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1654540&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F18 Conclusion: Patients with higher risk of CHD tend to live in areas served by practices with lower prescribing rates and poorer structural characteristics. The scale of the differences in prescribing suggests that health care system factors rather than individual treatment decisions cause inequity in care. Identifying whether South Asian individuals are less likely to receive heart disease drugs than non South Asians requires individual-level prescribing data, which is currently not available in the UK. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1654540 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1654540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1624457&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F18 Background: We examine whether practices in areas with higher risks of CHD prescribe different levels of cardiovascular drugs and describe how they differ in GP and practice characteristics. Methods: Propensity score matching was used to identify two groups of practices in Scotland. The cases were in areas with 5% or more of the population in South Asian ethnic groups. The controls were in areas with less than 1% of the population in South Asian ethnic groups and were matched for other population characteristics. Results: The 39 case practices experience higher levels of morbidity and deprivation than the controls. They have lower prescribing rates than the matched controls for all heart disease drugs (p (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1624457 Tue, 15 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1624457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1555862&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F17 Background: To prove the possibility of implementing the New Rural Cooperative Medical System (NRCMS) at different levels with a premium funding according to their economic level in developed and less developed areas in Guangdong province, and study the insurable inpatients in different types of regions, taking into account limitations of indemnities and loss ratios.MethodAll data samples were randomly collected from the NRCMS Department, Guangdong Province. Gross domestic product (GDP) at 10000 RMB per capita was employed to divide Guangdong into two economic levels: (1) economically developed & (2) less economically developed regions. A descriptive analysis about tendency of raising premium and reimbursement ratios of common fund was performed with independent samples and t-test as well ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1555862 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1555862 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1555863&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F16 Conclusions: The use of antithrombotic drugs and beta-blockers among Finnish coronary patients seemed to be rather appropriate and, to some extent, prescription practices of preventive medication varied according to patients' risk of coronary events. However, statin use was remarkably low among men with low socio-economic status, and there is need to improve preventive drug treatment among diabetic coronary patients. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1555863 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1555863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1502138&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F15 Conclusions: Malaysia's two tier health system, of a heavily subsidised public sector and a user charged private sector, has produced a progressive health financing system. The case of Malaysia exemplifies that policy makers can gain an in depth understanding of the equity impact, in order to help shape health financing strategies for the nation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1502138 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1502138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1490952&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F14 Conclusions: The quantitative monitoring of inequalities in health may contribute to the formulation of redistributive policies aimed at the concurrent promotion of wellbeing and social justice. The assessment of groups experiencing a higher burden of disease can instruct health services to provide additional resources for expanding preventive actions and facilities aimed at early diagnosis, standardized treatments and rehabilitation. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1490952 Wed, 04 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1490952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1420118&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F13 Conclusion: Poor social networks and low social support are more frequent among socio-economically disadvantaged people. To some extent, this finding varies according to the indicator chosen to measure these social constructs. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1420118 Mon, 05 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1420118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1415684&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F12 This article reviews 173 studies from 15 high-income countries and discusses their implications for important issues sometimes ignored in the literature; in particular, the extent to which prescription charges contain health care costs and enhance efficiency without lowering equity of access to care. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1415684 Fri, 02 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1415684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1408963&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F11 Poverty is often identified as a major barrier to human development. It is also a powerful brake on accelerated progress toward the Millennium Development Goals. Poverty is also a major cause of maternal mortality, as it prevents many women from getting proper and adequate medical attention due to their inability to afford good antenatal care. This Paper thus examines poverty as a threat to human existence, particularly women's health. It highlights the causes of maternal deaths in Nigeria by questioning the practice of medicine in this country, which falls short of the ethical principle of showing care. Since high levels of poverty limit access to quality health care and consequently human development, this paper suggests ways of reducing maternal mortality in Nigeria. It emphasizes the i... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1408963 Wed, 30 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1408963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1398612&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F10 User fees were introduced in public health facilities in Cambodia in 1997 in order to inject funds into the health system to enhance the quality of services. Because of inadequate health insurance, a social safety net scheme was introduced to ensure that all people were able to attend the health facilities. However, continuing high rates of hospitalization and mortality from dengue fever among infants and children reflect the difficulties that women continue to face in finding sufficient cash in cases of medical emergency, resulting in delays in diagnosis and treatment. In this article, drawing on in-depth interviews conducted with mothers of children infected with dengue in eastern Cambodia, we illustrate the profound economic consequences for households when a child is ill. The direct co... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1398612 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1398612 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1388035&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: The MIRE has considerable utility as an instrument that can assess multiple facets of racism together with responses/reactions to racism among indigenous populations and, potentially, among other ethnic/racial groups. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1388035 Tue, 22 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1388035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1310163&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F8 This paper highlights the socio-economic impacts of HIV/AIDS on women. It argues that the socio-cultural beliefs that value the male and female lives differently lead to differential access to health care services. The position of women is exacerbated by their low financial base especially in the rural community where their main source of livelihood, agricultural production does not pay much. But even their active involvement in agricultural production or any other income ventures is hindered when they have to give care to the sick and bedridden friends and relatives. This in itself is a threat to household food security. The paper proposes that gender sensitive policies and programming of intervention at community level would lessen the burden on women who bear the brunt of AIDS as caregi... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1310163 Tue, 18 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1310163 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1260786&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F7 Conclusions: Although the degree of satisfaction with the primary health care was relatively high among the participants in these surveys, the non-western immigrants in this study were less satisfied than ethnic Norwegians with their last visit to a general practitioner. The rather low response rates opens for the possibility that the degree of satisfaction may not be representative for all immigrants. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1260786 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1260786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1199442&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F6 Conclusion: The two very different, but connected projects, demonstrate the value of adopting the GEGA approach, and the importance of involvement of all stakeholders at all stages. The studies also illustrate the potential of a research institution as informed 'outsiders', in influencing policy and practice. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1199442 Mon, 04 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1199442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1190662&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F5 Conclusions: Supporting the Durkheimian concepts of both anomic and altruistic suicide, both disengagement (depression, anomie, vulnerability to victimization, and discomfort with non-Black physicians) as well as over-acceptance (low awareness of discrimination in society) predict poor health maintenance attitudes in disadvantaged women. Women who recognize their connection to other African-American women, and who talk about negative experiences, appear most motivated to protect their health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1190662 Thu, 31 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1190662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1166831&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F4 All health care systems face problems of justice and efficiency related to setting priorities for allocating a limited pool of resources to a population. Because many of the central issues are the same in all systems, the United States and other countries can learn from the successes and failures of countries that have explicitly addressed the question of health care priorities. We review explicit priority setting efforts in Norway, Sweden, Israel, the Netherlands, Denmark, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the state of Oregon in the US. The approaches used can be divided into those centered on outlining principles versus those that define practices. In order to establish the main lessons from their experiences we consider (1) the process each country used, (2) criteria to judge the succ... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1166831 Mon, 21 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1166831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1141878&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F2 Conclusion: Microcredit is not a panacea, but could help to improve the health of poor women by addressing certain issues relevant to the context. In Kerala, SHG participation can help protect poor women against exclusion to health care and possibly aid in promoting their mental health. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1141878 Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1141878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1138885&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F7%2F1%2F1 Conclusions: Even with comprehensive health insurance coverage for almost 100% of the population, Germany shows clear differences in access to care, with SHI patients waiting 3.08 times longer for an appointment than PHI patients. Wide-spread anecdotal reports of shorter waiting times for PHI patients were empirically supported. Discrepancies in access to care not only depend on accessibility to comprehensive health insurance cover, but also on the level of reimbursement for the physician. Higher reimbursements for the provider when it comes to comparable health problems and diagnostic treatments could lead to improved access to care. We conclude that incentives for adjusting access to care according to the necessity of treatment should be implemented. (Source: International Journal for Eq... International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1138885 Wed, 09 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1138885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1122418&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F6%2F1%2F24 Conclusion: The Programme of Work which is being delivered through the SWAp is a good opportunity to enhance equity and pro-poor health services. The major challenge is to increase case detection, especially amongst the poor, where we assume most 'missing cases' are to be found. In addition, the Programme needs a prevalence survey which will enable thorough equity monitoring and the development of responsive interventions to promote service access amongst 'missing' women, men, boys and girls. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1122418 Mon, 31 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1122418 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1102659&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F6%2F1%2F23 Conclusions: The findings confirm that substantial socioeconomic inequalities in health as measured by self-reported morbidity and self-assessed health exist in Thailand. Decomposition analysis shows that inequalities in health status are associated with particular demographic, socioeconomic and geographic population subgroups. Vulnerable subgroups which are prone to both ill health and relative poverty warrant targeted policy attention. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1102659 Tue, 18 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1102659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1064712&cid=s_31010_46_f&fid=31010&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.equityhealthj.com%2Fcontent%2F6%2F1%2F22 Conclusions: The present distribution strategies for ITNs are not addressing the needs of the vulnerable groups, especially the poor. Increasing access to ITNs by the poor will require innovative distribution models which deliberately target the poorest of the poor. (Source: International Journal for Equity in Health) International Journal for Equity in Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1064712 Sun, 02 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1064712