Which factor can cause disparities in healthcare access?

Poverty is a significant factor that can cause disparities in healthcare access. Individuals and families living in poverty often face numerous barriers that limit their ability to obtain necessary medical care. These barriers can include a lack of health insurance, financial constraints that prevent them from affording healthcare services or medications, and reduced access to transportation to medical facilities. Moreover, those in poverty often reside in areas with fewer healthcare resources, such as clinics or hospitals, which exacerbates their difficulties in accessing care. The interaction between socioeconomic status and healthcare can lead to increased health disparities, as those with fewer financial resources are at a higher risk for untreated health conditions and poor health outcomes.

While other factors like geographical location, gender, and age also play a role in healthcare access, poverty is the foundational issue that magnifies these disparities.