What does the concept of "equity" in health care refer to?

The concept of "equity" in health care is fundamentally about ensuring fair access to treatment for everyone, regardless of their background, socio-economic status, or individual circumstances. This means that health care resources are distributed in a way that addresses the differing needs of various populations, with the goal of eliminating disparities in health outcomes. Equity recognizes that people start from different places and may require different resources to achieve similar health outcomes.

By focusing on fair access, health equity aims to create conditions that allow for everyone to achieve their highest possible standard of health. This approach contrasts with the notion of equality, which would imply providing the same resources to everyone, irrespective of their unique needs or challenges. Thus, prioritizing the needs of individuals who may be disadvantaged is a critical aspect of ensuring equity in health care.