Based on the class discussion, the readings covered all of the points that are affecting the health care system for people who may not have equal opportunities. Such as food, education, and preventive care. In the reading by Sandra Braunstein and Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, the community was looked at as a whole. Instead of targeting a specific group or one issue such as unhealthy food options in the community, various issues were overseen. Such as educating the community on healthy food options, promoting daily exercise and providing a safe space to do so. Education and social economic status were two major points discussed not only the reading but in the class discussion. Based on the reading, life expectancy increases as income rises, in addition, the higher level of education received increases a person’s life expectancy as well. Furthermore, the reading Moving Beyond “Health Disparities” brought up valid points in terms of policy and community-based work that can improve health care conditions in various communities. One point I found interesting was educational opportunities and jobs, a nutrition course and good eating habits could be taught in schools to improve overall health. Based on personal experience certain school lunches consist of pizza or chicken tenders which weren’t the healthiest option. In addition, another solution mentioned in the reading was Increasing awareness about the root causes of certain diseases. This solution involves the effort of providing preventive care, for example, diabetic screening could be provided and be taken as an opportunity to educate the patient on the effects and risk of diabetes within the community. The readings demonstrated the importance of education and resources in order to improve healthcare opportunities in communities. In addition, the importance of preventive care could be used to educate patients and provide the screening they need. All in all, the key to a health justice movement is to strengthen communities, instead of isolating those who might need the help or guidance.
References:
http://content.healthaffairs.org/content/30/11/2042.full
Click to access Health%20Equity%20101%20Final%20May%202014%20AS%20pdf.pdf
Health Care Is Not A Privileged Its A Right! 
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