During my session, we will explore the complex concept of discrimination in healthcare from two perspectives – global and national. We will examine both direct and indirect forms of discrimination in healthcare. The session will be divided into two parts. The first part will focus on global health disparities, and the second part will focus on national systems.
Discrimination in global health is intricately entwined with existing geopolitical structures, exemplified by disparities between the North-South and West-East regions. Any meaningful effort to eradicate discrimination necessitates a call for decolonialization and decoloniality of global health. The emergence of new influential players on the international stage, notably transnational companies, is evident. The impact of these entities in global health was particularly pronounced during the Covid-19 pandemic. The intersection of global health with international human rights frameworks will be examined, particularly in the contexts of pandemics, war and climate change.
Turning our attention to discrimination within national health systems, we will examine various bases such as disability, gender, race, and socioeconomic status. The concept of intersectionality will be explored, underscoring the interconnectedness of diverse characteristics.
The right to health stands at the core of combatting discriminations within healthcare and addressing health inequities. Essential components of the right to health, such as availability, accessibility, acceptability, and quality must be present for an efficient healthcare system. Furthermore, the right to health is interconnected with a range of other human rights. Access to housing, clean water, air, and education significantly impacts both the accessibility and quality of healthcare.
Throughout this session, we will shed light on systemic issues that amplify discrimination in healthcare, with a particular focus on obstetric violence (violence during childbirth).
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