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Steps to reduce disparities in UK health equitySteps to reduce disparities in UK health equity
Health equity is becoming a key priority within the UK’s National Health Service, focusing on addressing the complex barriers that prevent equitable health outcomes.
Dr. MaryAnn Ferreux
March 21, 2025
3 Min Read
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Within the UK National Health Service (NHS) there is a lot of talk about health equity and health equality – but what’s the difference?
Health equality is about the distribution of resources and its impact on outcomes; it’s about everyone having the same. Health equity is thinking about the wider system that drives these outcomes and the changes that need to happen to ensure everyone gets the support they need. Equity is not about trying to be equal because different people have different needs. It means that you might need to give more to others to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
A national priority
Health equity is a national priority for many reasons, including:
Leading a healthy life is recognised as a human right.
Health inequities represent an unequal allocation of resources, power, and opportunity.
Vulnerable populations and marginalised groups are disproportionately affected; they have less power and opportunity and are more likely to face barriers in accessing health care.
Health inequalities facilitate a perpetual cycle of poverty and poor health.
Inequalities in health lead to economic losses due to preventable illnesses and premature deaths – inequities found in the most deprived neighbourhoods costs an estimated £29.8 billion a year to the economy in lost productivity.
Health inequities can facilitate the spread of infectious diseases and weaken overall public health infrastructure, as seen in the COVID-19 pandemic which shone a light on the inequalities faced by BAME (black and minority ethnic) populations who were more likely to be exposed to and die from the virus.
The nature of the problem is broad and complex. It is connected to all aspects of public health, requires an approach that is holistic and integrated, and involves attention to public and political decisions.
The role of commissioners
Commissioning is the process of assessing needs, planning and prioritising, purchasing and monitoring services to get the best health and care outcomes for the population. As such, commissioners have a key role in addressing health inequalities. Commissioners can champion health equity by ensuring new and existing models of care are designed to reduce health inequalities and meet the needs of the most disadvantaged and seldom heard communities.
Ten principles of health equity
The ten principles of health equity were developed to help us to think about health equity in all our decision-making. They are based on latest best practice and evidence that has proven to be supportive in promoting health equity.
The principles are:
People: Identify underserved populations.
Data: Measure and define health gaps.
Care: Co-design solutions with users.
Clinical: Engage the clinical workforce.
Digital: Enable digital inclusion.
Finance: Reduce financial barriers to access.
Place: Ensure inclusive access at place.
Climate: Limit climate impact on health.
Policy: Address bias in policy making
Communications: Implement inclusive messaging.
By following these principles and working together, I believe we can enable all people with the opportunity to achieve their optimal level of health.
Dr. MaryAnn Ferreux is the Chief Medical Officer at Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex.
This article is featured in the Arab Health 2025 magazine. Click here to discover more news and trends to elevate your business strategy.
