International journal for equity in health
-
Int J Equity Health · Jan 2019
Applying an intersectionality lens to examine health for vulnerable individuals following devolution in Kenya.
Power imbalances are a key driver of avoidable, unfair and unjust differences in health. Devolution shifts the balance of power in health systems. Intersectionality approaches can provide a 'lens' for analysing how power relations contribute to complex and multiple forms of health advantage and disadvantage. These approaches have not to date been widely used to analyse health systems reforms. While the stated objectives of devolution often include improved equity, efficiency and community participation, past evidence demonstrates that that there is a need to create space and capacity for people to transform existing power relations these within specific contexts. ⋯ If key actors in devolved decision-making structures are to ensure progress towards universal health coverage, there is need for intersectoral policy action to address social determinants, promote equity and identify ways to challenge and shift power imbalances in priority-setting processes.
-
Int J Equity Health · Jan 2019
Socioeconomic inequalities in low back pain among older people: the JAGES cross-sectional study.
Low back pain is an important public health issue across the world. However, it is unclear whether socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with low back pain. This study determines an association between SES and low back pain among older people. ⋯ Significant socioeconomic inequalities were observed in low back pain among older individuals in Japan. Policymakers and clinicians must understand the nature of these inequalities.
-
Int J Equity Health · Jan 2019
The impact of policy on the intangible service efficiency of the primary health care institution- based on China's health care reform policy in 2009.
Analyzing the impact of the China's health care reform policy in 2009 on the intangible service efficiency of PHCI and exploring the way to improve the service efficiency of PHCI. ⋯ The growth of intangible service efficiency in China's PHCI still belongs to input growth rather than efficiency growth. In the future, the technical progress and improvement in the management level are the key measures to promote the intangible service efficiency of PHCI.