The Role of Global Health Nurses in Addressing Health Disparities

Abstract

Understanding health disparities is crucial as today’s world is interconnected. Health disparities refer to differences in the health status of different population groups. They are associated with a wide range of factors including social, economic, and racial/ethnic backgrounds. Understanding health disparities is a fundamental part of the discipline of global health. Health disparities undermine the achievement of any of the Sustainable Development Goals. Health disparities can exist between and within countries. Factors affecting health disparities can differ between and within countries. It is crucial for global health nurses to understand health disparities as they may be called upon to take action to address them. (Artiga et al., 2020)

Nurses around the world practice in diverse communities and have excellent insight into the unique strengths and requirements of the individuals and communities they serve. The five principles of public health nursing include community involvement, partnership working, protecting and promoting health, working with vulnerable groups, and equity. To achieve health equity, nurses must engage in advocacy, education, and community engagement to make a long-term difference in the health of a community. Given the interconnected nature of today’s world, nurses everywhere are global nurses who must be able to recognize health disparities and advocate for health equity in their communities. (Nardi et al.2020)