Kogiflame
Dr. Kennedy O. Obohwemu, a renowned public health expert and author, has urged stakeholders in health sector to prioritise ‘health equity’ by tailoring interventions towards addressing specific needs and eliminating disparities.
Dr. Obohwemu, a member of ForbesBLK community, made the call while delivering a lecture as a Guest Speaker at the III Congress of the Brazilian Society for the Quality of Patient Care and Safety, held in São Paulo, Brazil from 7th-9th November 2024.
Dr. Obohwemu delivered a thought-provoking keynote address titled “All Animals Are Equal, But Some Animals Are More Equal Than Others: Equity as a Fundamental Dimension of Health.”
The renowned public health expert who is based in the UK, delved into the critical issue of healthcare inequity in his typical glamorous style by highlighting the disparities in accessing quality healthcare that persisted globally.
He emphasized that while the concept of universal health coverage had gained traction, true equity remains elusive, saying, “Factors such as socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, and geographical location continue to influence health outcomes”.
Dr. Obohwemu’s presentation included some key points such as: Defining Health Equity, the Social Determinants of Health, the Role of Healthcare Systems, the Impact of COVID-19, as well as the Future of Health Equity.
Dr. Obohwemu explored the nuances of health equity, distinguishing it from health equality, explaining that “while equality implies treating everyone the same, equity involves tailoring interventions to address specific needs and eliminate disparities”.
He discussed the multifaceted factors that shape health outcomes, including socioeconomic status, education, employment, housing, and environmental conditions.
The health expert also examined the role of healthcare systems in perpetuating or mitigating health inequities. He highlighted the importance of culturally competent care, patient-centered approaches, and equitable resource allocation.
Speaking on the Impact of COVID-19, Dr. Obohwemu, who is the Founder/CEO of PENKUP International, said the pandemic exacerbated existing health disparities, exposing vulnerabilities in healthcare systems worldwide.
He further analyzed how the pandemic highlighted the urgent need for equitable responses to health crises.
Dr. Obohwemu concluded by outlining strategies to explore in addressing health inequities, such as investing in social determinants of health, strengthening primary care, and promoting health literacy.
Dr. Obohwemu’s presentation was met with enthusiasm and sparked lively discussions among attendees, as his insights and expertise have greatly inspired healthcare professionals to prioritize equity in their work.
“By addressing the root causes of health disparities, we can strive to build a healthier and more equitable future for all,” Dr. Obohwemu stated.
