Taking a Stand to Remedy the Inadequacies of Action on Health Equity Exposed by COVID-19

Authors

Susana Caxaj, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Abe Oudshoorn, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Marilyn Ford-Gilboe, The University of Western Ontario
Fiona Webster, The University of Western Ontario
Lorie Donelle, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Cheryl Forchuk, Distinguished University
Helene Berman, The University of Western Ontario
Vicki Smye, The University of Western Ontario

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-1-2021

Journal

Nursing leadership (Toronto, Ont.)

Volume

34

Issue

1

First Page

20

Last Page

29

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.12927/cjnl.2021.26458

Abstract

As we struggle with the impacts of a global pandemic, there is growing evidence of the inequitable impacts of this crisis. In this commentary, we argue that actions on health equity to date have been insufficient despite significant scholarship to guide both practice and policy. To move from talk to action on health equity, we propose the following five approaches: (1) reversing the erosion of publicly funded health systems; (2) creating broad economic means to support health; (3) moving health action upstream; (4) challenging ageist and/or ableist discourses; and (5) decolonizing approaches and enacting solidarity. Engaging in these actions will help close the gaps and address disparities made more evident during this global pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic reinforces the need for us to move from discussion to action if we are to achieve health for all. Adopting a health equity lens is a means of both understanding and stimulating action to readdress the root causes of inequities and work toward a fairer, more just society.