Despite the best efforts of nurses and healthcare providers, there are several barriers to achieving equitable care. These include:
Socioeconomic Barriers : Patients from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may have limited access to healthcare services, healthy foods, and safe living environments.
Cultural and Language Barriers : Differences in language and cultural practices can hinder effective communication and understanding between patients and healthcare providers.
Systemic Racism : Historical and ongoing systemic racism can lead to mistrust of the healthcare system and disparities in the quality of care received by minority populations.
Lack of Resources : Underfunded healthcare facilities and a shortage of healthcare professionals in certain areas can limit the availability of quality care.
Implicit Bias : Unconscious biases held by healthcare providers can affect their interactions with patients and the care they provide.