Health Inequalities

Health inequalities are an exacerbating factor for respiratory conditions and negatively affect patient outcomes. PCRS aims to raise awareness and offers practical resources to help healthcare professionals to mitigate their impact.

How health inequalities affect lung disease

Incidence and mortality rates from respiratory disease are higher in disadvantages groups and areas of social deprivation.  Higher smoking rates, higher levels of air pollution, poorer housing quality and populations that work in industries with greater exposure to occupational hazards are all contributing factors to lung disease.  The COVID19 pandemic has revealed long term weaknesses in the healthcare system and has had a disproportionate effect on the vulnerable, deprived and different ethnic communities.  New technological advances and greater reliance on the digital delivery of healthcare, whilst positive for many, risk those that don't have access to such technology being left behind. 

The educational resources below are designed to help improve understanding of the range of factors that might impact patients, provide guidance on how to identify vulnerable patients, advice on service development and signposting for more resources. 

This is a new campaign and we will continue to add to these resources as they become available - so please keep checking back for the latest practical advice. 

PCRS is also a signatory to the Inequalities in Health Alliance.  

People experiencing homelessness

This video resource covers how homelessness affects health outcomes and mortality, and respiratory health. The resource also details what we in primary care can do about homelessness including reducing the barriers to engaging with services, and using clear and empathetic communication.

Poverty and Poor Housing

As part of our ongoing work around health inequalities, we have produced a short video resource on poverty and poor housing, and its impact on respiratory health.

Language analysis map

Understanding how language can play a big barrier in healthcare delivery

Exploring the Ethics and Inequalities of Digital Technology

Part of our Digital Technology Webinar Series 2022, exploring the ethics and inequalities of digital technology

Using Data and Dashboards to Improve Respiratory Care

Part of our Digital Technology Webinar Series 2022, exploring the ethics and inequalities of digital technology

PCRS in Conversation - Health Inequalities

At the Primary Care Respiratory Society (PCRS), we believe in 'optimal'; respiratory health for all. Our aim is that, together, we can benefit every person with, or at risk of, lung disease.

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