CHNA - Flipbook - Page 12
Health Disparities
Significant disparities and inequities in community health and access to healthcare was a foundational finding in the
Community Health Needs Assessment. The quantitative and qualitative data showed significant barriers to health
equity in the Verdant Service Area. For the purposes of the CHNA, Verdant used the Robert Wood Johnson
Foundation definition of health equity, which states:
“Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. This requires
removing obstacles to health such as poverty, discrimination, and their consequences, including
powerlessness and lack of access to good jobs with fair pay, quality education and housing, safe
environments, and health care.”
Health equity ensures that resources are allocated based on each person’s circumstances, to ensure everyone can
reach an equal outcome. Barriers to health equity evidenced in the CHNA included: inequities due to wealth disparities,
racism, language barriers, immigration status, age (especially seniors and youth), disability, and insurance coverage
for specific services, namely mental healthcare, dental, hearing, and vision. Many people experience compounding
inequities due to racism, ableism, sexism, and other forms of marginalization. These issues identified within the
Community Perspectives Survey were supported by the quantitative data analyzed for the Verdant Service Area which
highlighted specific disparities. the health of our residents by leading with compassion, working collaboratively, and
focusing on health equity.
Verdant Health Commission 2022
