EXAMINING JUSTICE AND INEQUALITIES IN THE HEALTH SECTOR WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING

Abstract

Aim: The social determinants of health are crucial for understanding the factors that influence social justice in healthcare. Besides medical care, factors such as housing, education, employment, and income disparities need to be considered for a healthy life. The aim of this review is to examine justice and inequalities in the healthcare sector within the context of public health nursing. Method: Literature search was conducted between December 01, 2023, and January 31, 2024, using the English translations of key terms such as "health sector," "justice," "inequalities," "public health nursing," or "health" and "social justice" and "inequities" in Google Scholar, Medline, Pubmed, and Sciencedirect search engines. Results: Justice in the healthcare sector is defined as the absence of systematic differences in health or its fundamental indicators among social groups with different levels of social advantage or disadvantage within a society. This implies equal access to healthcare services for every individual and the absence of unjust distribution of health opportunities, ensuring no barriers to health access. The focus should be on preserving the health of everyone in society, not just individuals. The goal of justice in the healthcare sector is to eliminate barriers preventing access to health resources and services for everyone as a whole. Data indicate numerous attitudes and reasons contributing to social justice inequalities in the healthcare sector. Conclusion: Public health nurses focus on addressing the social determinants of health and aim to eliminate health inequalities through leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, advocacy, education, and care roles. By actively contributing at these levels, public health nurses can strengthen the healthcare system and work towards a better future.