Image from: https://hospitalnews.com/connecting-marginalized-patients-with-the-right-level-of-care/

            The health of vulnerable and marginalized populations can be influenced by individual, environmental, and societal factors. Individually, sometimes your health can be out of your control. However, positive lifestyle choices can improve outcomes. Environmentally, the area you live in can affect how you grow up. One may not have healthy food options, poor schooling, or poor air quality. Historically, societal factors that impact individuals have become more evident during this pandemic. For example, during COVID-19, the effects of the pandemic were higher among Hispanics and African Americans. The risk of exposure to Hispanics and African Americans was more remarkable, predicted by society’s inequalities. History has shown that those who have had access to proper education, safe neighborhoods, healthcare, and healthier food options have a better health outcome. Otherwise, those individuals are at greater risk of becoming among the vulnerable and marginalized individuals.

            The effects of the pandemic widened the wealth gap between the haves and have nots. Strategies for resolving health and healthcare disparities are to offer resources for those in need. People who don’t get the support they need may burn out and give up on life. It’s essential to have unconditional positive regard and be an active listener. If the patient doesn’t feel welcome or comfortable, they may not come back for treatment. Something that has also been evident during this pandemic is opioid overdose. According to a presentation by Bob Fowler, a Public Health Director for the City of Portland, Maine, it is a significant factor of the United States’ first decline of age expectancy. I plan to advocate for marginalized patients, depending on their needs, to enhance their care.

            As I reflect on prior learning, I think of what I learned in mental health. Ignorance of vulnerable and marginalized populations can lead to poor coping habits, which can worsen the problem. When more complications arise, treatments can be more costly. To ensure patients come back for treatment, being nonjudgmental and helping where you can for them to achieve a state of wellness.