Equality is the most important human rights principle for the provision of health care.
Argue your position in relation to the statement, also engage with counter arguments.
For a long time, the domains of human rights protection and public health care were distinct. Since
2002, the World Health Organization has recognized the concept of a "right to health" (Gruskin et al.,
2007). The right to health is commonly interpreted as the right to an environment that allows for the
achievement of the maximum attainable standard of health (Gruskin et al., 2007). Therefore, The
right to health necessitates that health institutions and services operate in compliance with medical
and human rights standards. This right includes the right to respect for inherent human dignity,
recognition of equality, recognition of human autonomy, and protection of security (Gruskin et al.,
2007). Among these four principles, equality might be the most important one.
According to research, happiness decreases as social inequality increases (Becker et al., 2021).
Therefore, equality is critical since Inequalities in the distribution of income and wealth are globally
increasing (Freire, 1972). This is among other things due to, politicians frequently supporting tax
reductions for the wealthy while removing support for public services (e.g., health care and
education) - ostensibly to promote self-reliance and individual choice (Becker et al., 2021). Also, a
growing number of social public services are being privatized and liberalized (Freire, 1972). These
factors contribute to inequity. According to research, inequalities in health care among migrants
result in lower health status than among nationals (Ledoux et al., 2018).
Some argue that human autonomy is the most important principle in health care. Their argument is
that privatizing health care will result in cost savings and worse health outcomes (Goodair & Reeves,
2022). Patients should engage in and make their own medical choices whenever feasible. In this
manner, the cheapest treatment is not simply selected (Kilbride & Joffe, 2018). Although, this is
important physicians still have the knowledge, insight, and medical supplies that the patient does not
have (Kilbride & Joffe, 2018). Others say that protection of security is the most important principle.
When people use health care, individuals are on their own with no control over their situation.
Patients are subjected to policies and procedures, financial factors, unnecessary surgery, and
significant health risks (Illich, 1974:24). The principle for inherent human dignity is the most
important principle according to some. It is stated that human dignity is the core value and reasoning
for human rights (Wogen & Restrepo, 2020).
Despite this, equality remains the most important principle. There can be no autonomy, security, or
dignity without equality since some individuals do not have access to health care without equality. By
establishing equality, everyone has the same chance of receiving health care, allowing other
principles to be achieved.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller gracemarielle. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $5.69. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.