smc-5475-15-Inequity causes

HMS, HAG 2025 HSC 32b

To what extent do THREE factors that create health inequities affect ONE population group in Australia? ( 12 marks)

--- 27 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Population group: The aged (65+ years)

Judgement Statement

Three factors—access to services, socioeconomic disadvantage and social isolation— create significant health inequities for aged Australians, with compounding effects that substantially reduce health outcomes and quality of life.

Access to Services and Transport

Limited access to healthcare services creates major health inequities for older Australians.
Rural and remote aged populations face substantial barriers reaching specialist care, diagnostic services and preventative health programs.
Transport difficulties compound these issues as declining mobility reduces medical appointment attendance.
This results in delayed diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia related illnesses, increasing mortality rates among the elderly.
Fewer preventative visits mean chronic conditions progress undetected whilst inadequate allied health access reduces rehabilitation opportunities.
Geographic isolation intensifies these barriers, creating cycles of declining health status compared to urban counterparts.

Socioeconomic Factors

Financial constraints significantly affect aged Australians relying solely on age pensions.
Lower incomes restrict access to private healthcare, specialists and medications not fully covered by Medicare.
Gap payments and medication costs force delays in seeking care, resulting in untreated chronic conditions.
This leads to preventable hospitalisations and poorer disease management outcomes.
Socioeconomically disadvantaged older adults experience higher rates of inadequate nutrition and poor housing quality, further compromising health.

Social Isolation

Social isolation profoundly impacts mental and physical health for older adults living alone following bereavement or family relocation.
Reduced social connections correlate strongly with increased depression, anxiety and cognitive decline including dementia progression.
Isolation decreases motivation for self-care and physical activity whilst poor housing modifications increase fall risk and injury rates.
Limited support networks mean delayed help-seeking when unwell, worsening health outcomes and recovery times.

Reaffirmation

These three factors interact substantially to create significant health inequities for aged Australians.
The combined effect exceeds individual factors as limited access, financial barriers and isolation reinforce each other.
Aged populations experiencing multiple disadvantages demonstrate markedly worse health outcomes including higher chronic disease rates and premature mortality.

Show Worked Solution

Population group: The aged (65+ years)

Judgement Statement

Three factors—access to services, socioeconomic disadvantage and social isolation— create significant health inequities for aged Australians, with compounding effects that substantially reduce health outcomes and quality of life.

Access to Services and Transport

Limited access to healthcare services creates major health inequities for older Australians.
Rural and remote aged populations face substantial barriers reaching specialist care, diagnostic services and preventative health programs.
Transport difficulties compound these issues as declining mobility reduces medical appointment attendance.
This results in delayed diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia related illnesses, increasing mortality rates among the elderly.
Fewer preventative visits mean chronic conditions progress undetected whilst inadequate allied health access reduces rehabilitation opportunities.
Geographic isolation intensifies these barriers, creating cycles of declining health status compared to urban counterparts.

Socioeconomic Factors

Financial constraints significantly affect aged Australians relying solely on age pensions.
Lower incomes restrict access to private healthcare, specialists and medications not fully covered by Medicare.
Gap payments and medication costs force delays in seeking care, resulting in untreated chronic conditions.
This leads to preventable hospitalisations and poorer disease management outcomes.
Socioeconomically disadvantaged older adults experience higher rates of inadequate nutrition and poor housing quality, further compromising health.

Social Isolation

Social isolation profoundly impacts mental and physical health for older adults living alone following bereavement or family relocation.
Reduced social connections correlate strongly with increased depression, anxiety and cognitive decline including dementia progression.
Isolation decreases motivation for self-care and physical activity whilst poor housing modifications increase fall risk and injury rates.
Limited support networks mean delayed help-seeking when unwell, worsening health outcomes and recovery times.

Reaffirmation

These three factors interact substantially to create significant health inequities for aged Australians.
The combined effect exceeds individual factors as limited access, financial barriers and isolation reinforce each other.
Aged populations experiencing multiple disadvantages demonstrate markedly worse health outcomes including higher chronic disease rates and premature mortality.

♦♦ Mean mark 45%.

HMS, HAG 2025 HSC 2 MC

Which of the following is an environmental factor that determines why some groups in Australia experience health inequities?

Religion
Genetics
Employment
Geographical location

Show Answers Only

\(D\)

Show Worked Solution

D is correct: Geographical location determines access to healthcare services and facilities. Remote areas experience reduced access leading to health inequities.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Religion does not determine health inequities.
B is incorrect: Genetics affects individuals, not group inequities.
C is incorrect: Employment is less fundamental than geographical access.

HMS, HAG EQ-Bank 99 MC

The ongoing impact of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples' health can be explained through:

Higher rates of chronic diseases in urban compared to remote communities
Reduced access to traditional medicines and healing practices only
Limited government funding for Indigenous-specific health programs
Intergenerational trauma from forced removal of children and cultural suppression continuing to affect mental health and substance abuse rates

Show Answers Only

\(D\)

Show Worked Solution

D is correct: Intergenerational trauma from Stolen Generations and cultural suppression continues affecting mental health and substance abuse.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Colonisation impacts affect all Indigenous communities not specifically urban versus remote patterns.
B is incorrect: Access to traditional practices is one factor but intergenerational trauma is the primary ongoing impact.
C is incorrect: Funding levels are current policy issues not the fundamental ongoing impact of colonisation.

HMS, HAG EQ-Bank 98 MC

Which factor primarily underpins health inequities for socioeconomically disadvantaged people living in areas like Walgett and Bourke?

Higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption in these communities
Limited access to fresh food markets due to high concentration of fast-food outlets
Geographic barriers requiring long-distance travel to access healthcare services and specialists
Cultural norms that discourage help-seeking behaviours in rural communities

Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution

C is correct: Geographic location requires travelling over 100km to reach hospitals creating financial burdens and healthcare access barriers.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: Higher smoking and alcohol rates are consequences not primary underlying causes of inequity.
B is incorrect: Food desert issues affect some areas but geographic healthcare access is the primary barrier.
D is incorrect: Cultural norms are more relevant to general rural populations not specifically socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.

HMS, HAG 2013 HSC 33a

Explain TWO factors that contribute to health inequities in different population groups. (8 marks)

--- 24 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Health inequities arise from complex interactions between social, economic and environmental factors that systematically disadvantage certain population groups through unequal access to health-promoting resources.
Socioeconomic disadvantage creates health inequities by limiting access to essential health-promoting resources and opportunities. Low income levels restrict access to nutritious foods, safe housing and quality healthcare services that are necessary for optimal health outcomes. Educational limitations reduce health literacy and decision-making capacity, leading to poor health choices and delayed healthcare seeking. Employment instability generates chronic stress and prevents consistent healthcare access through insurance coverage. This results in higher rates of chronic diseases, mental health issues and premature mortality among disadvantaged populations compared to affluent groups.
Geographic isolation contributes to health inequities through reduced access to healthcare services and health-promoting infrastructure. Rural and remote communities experience significant barriers including limited healthcare facilities, specialist shortages and extensive travel requirements for medical care. Distance from services delays emergency treatment and prevents regular preventive healthcare access. Poor infrastructure limits access to clean water, sanitation systems and recreational facilities that support healthy lifestyles. These geographic barriers result in higher injury rates, unmanaged chronic conditions and reduced life expectancy compared to metropolitan populations.
Both factors interact to compound disadvantage, as socioeconomically disadvantaged groups are more likely to live in geographically isolated areas where healthcare access remains most limited.

Show Worked Solution

Health inequities arise from complex interactions between social, economic and environmental factors that systematically disadvantage certain population groups through unequal access to health-promoting resources.
Socioeconomic disadvantage creates health inequities by limiting access to essential health-promoting resources and opportunities. Low income levels restrict access to nutritious foods, safe housing and quality healthcare services that are necessary for optimal health outcomes. Educational limitations reduce health literacy and decision-making capacity, leading to poor health choices and delayed healthcare seeking. Employment instability generates chronic stress and prevents consistent healthcare access through insurance coverage. This results in higher rates of chronic diseases, mental health issues and premature mortality among disadvantaged populations compared to affluent groups.
Geographic isolation contributes to health inequities through reduced access to healthcare services and health-promoting infrastructure. Rural and remote communities experience significant barriers including limited healthcare facilities, specialist shortages and extensive travel requirements for medical care. Distance from services delays emergency treatment and prevents regular preventive healthcare access. Poor infrastructure limits access to clean water, sanitation systems and recreational facilities that support healthy lifestyles. These geographic barriers result in higher injury rates, unmanaged chronic conditions and reduced life expectancy compared to metropolitan populations.
Both factors interact to compound disadvantage, as socioeconomically disadvantaged groups are more likely to live in geographically isolated areas where healthcare access remains most limited.

♦♦ Mean mark 54%.

HMS, HAG 2014 HSC 23

Explain the nature and extent of health inequities within Australia for one group OTHER than Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. (5 marks)

--- 15 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

People in rural and remote areas experience significant health inequities because limited healthcare access and higher risk behaviours create poorer health outcomes compared to city residents.
Geographic isolation directly affects health service availability and emergency response times. This leads to higher mortality rates for preventable chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease. As a result, life expectancy is lower with increased suicide rates.
Limited specialist services occur because fewer medical professionals choose rural practice locations. This creates longer travel distances and delays in receiving appropriate treatment. Consequently, emergency medical situations have poorer outcomes than urban areas.
Higher risk behaviours develop due to social isolation and limited recreational opportunities. This results in increased smoking rates and alcohol consumption exceeding guidelines. The combination produces elevated rates of preventable chronic diseases.
Socioeconomic disadvantage contributes through lower average incomes and reduced educational opportunities. This interaction with geographic isolation generates compounded effects on mental health and wellbeing.

Show Worked Solution

People in rural and remote areas experience significant health inequities because limited healthcare access and higher risk behaviours create poorer health outcomes compared to city residents.
Geographic isolation directly affects health service availability and emergency response times. This leads to higher mortality rates for preventable chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease. As a result, life expectancy is lower with increased suicide rates.
Limited specialist services occur because fewer medical professionals choose rural practice locations. This creates longer travel distances and delays in receiving appropriate treatment. Consequently, emergency medical situations have poorer outcomes than urban areas.
Higher risk behaviours develop due to social isolation and limited recreational opportunities. This results in increased smoking rates and alcohol consumption exceeding guidelines. The combination produces elevated rates of preventable chronic diseases.
Socioeconomic disadvantage contributes through lower average incomes and reduced educational opportunities. This interaction with geographic isolation generates compounded effects on mental health and wellbeing.

HMS, HAG 2014 HSC 7 MC

Which of the following is an environmental determinant that best explains why Indigenous Australians have a shorter life expectancy than non-Indigenous Australians?

The types of illness Indigenous Australians develop are more likely to result in death.
Traditional forms of medicine are no longer widely used by Indigenous Australians.
Indigenous Australians are less likely to have access to primary health care and adequate treatment.
Indigenous Australians have higher rates of unemployment so they cannot afford to visit the doctor regularly.

Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution

C is correct: Limited healthcare access is an environmental determinant affecting outcomes.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: This describes disease outcomes not environmental determinants.
B is incorrect: Traditional medicine use is cultural not environmental.
D is incorrect: Unemployment is socioeconomic not environmental determinant.

HMS, HAG 2016 HSC 31a

In relation to a group affected by health inequities, explain the role of the media in influencing social attitudes and public policy. (8 marks)

--- 24 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Rural and Remote Australians

Media representation directly shapes public perceptions about rural communities through stereotypical portrayals that influence funding priorities.
This occurs because mainstream media often depicts rural areas as backward or resistant to change rather than highlighting systemic disadvantages.
When negative stereotypes dominate coverage of rural health issues, urban audiences develop unsympathetic attitudes toward resource allocation needs.
For instance, when television programs portray rural people as self-reliant and independent, public support decreases for government health service funding in remote areas.
Limited media access creates barriers to health promotion message delivery that compounds existing rural health disadvantages.
This happens because rural communities often experience poor internet connectivity and reduced television reception affecting health campaign exposure.
Geographic isolation leads to missed opportunities for accessing digital health promotion initiatives and online health resources.
Evidence of this includes rural youth missing social media mental health campaigns due to poor digital infrastructure, resulting in delayed help-seeking behaviours during crisis periods.
Positive media advocacy generates significant policy improvements when rural health stories receive compassionate and accurate representation.
This works by humanising rural health challenges and creating emotional connections with urban audiences and politicians.
Community-driven media initiatives trigger increased government attention and funding announcements for rural health infrastructure development.
A clear example is rural communities using local newspapers and radio stations to document healthcare worker shortages, prompting state government recruitment incentive programs and improved medical training placements.

Show Worked Solution

Rural and Remote Australians

Media representation directly shapes public perceptions about rural communities through stereotypical portrayals that influence funding priorities.
This occurs because mainstream media often depicts rural areas as backward or resistant to change rather than highlighting systemic disadvantages.
When negative stereotypes dominate coverage of rural health issues, urban audiences develop unsympathetic attitudes toward resource allocation needs.
For instance, when television programs portray rural people as self-reliant and independent, public support decreases for government health service funding in remote areas.
Limited media access creates barriers to health promotion message delivery that compounds existing rural health disadvantages.
This happens because rural communities often experience poor internet connectivity and reduced television reception affecting health campaign exposure.
Geographic isolation leads to missed opportunities for accessing digital health promotion initiatives and online health resources.
Evidence of this includes rural youth missing social media mental health campaigns due to poor digital infrastructure, resulting in delayed help-seeking behaviours during crisis periods.
Positive media advocacy generates significant policy improvements when rural health stories receive compassionate and accurate representation.
This works by humanising rural health challenges and creating emotional connections with urban audiences and politicians.
Community-driven media initiatives trigger increased government attention and funding announcements for rural health infrastructure development.
A clear example is rural communities using local newspapers and radio stations to document healthcare worker shortages, prompting state government recruitment incentive programs and improved medical training placements.

♦♦ Mean mark 50%.

HMS, HAG 2017 HSC 4 MC

Which set of socioeconomic determinants has the greatest influence on the health inequities experienced by indigenous population groups?

Income and high-density living
Religious and cultural influences
Levels of education and employment
Media access and geographical location

Show Answers Only

\(C\)

Show Worked Solution

C is correct: Education and employment levels are key socioeconomic determinants affecting Indigenous health inequities.

Other Options:

A is incorrect: High-density living is not a major determinant for Indigenous populations.
B is incorrect: Religious influences are not primary socioeconomic determinants of health inequities.
D is incorrect: Media access is not a major socioeconomic determinant of health.

HMS, HAG 2018 HSC 32a

Explain how implementing economic and cultural change supports a population experiencing health inequity. (8 marks)

--- 24 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Economic changes support populations experiencing health inequity because improved financial resources enable better access to healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices. This occurs because economic disadvantage creates barriers to accessing medical services, nutritious food and safe housing.
For example, increasing minimum wages and providing employment opportunities enables low-income families to afford preventive healthcare and quality food. This leads to reduced financial stress and improved capacity to make healthy choices.
Additionally, government investment in affordable housing programs creates stable living environments that support better health outcomes. The reason for this is secure housing reduces exposure to environmental health risks and provides a foundation for accessing education and employment.
Cultural changes address health inequities because they challenge discriminatory attitudes and practices that prevent equal access to healthcare. This happens when healthcare providers receive cultural competency training to better understand diverse populations’ needs.
For instance, implementing culturally appropriate health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples results in increased trust and participation in health programs.
Consequently, this produces higher rates of preventive care utilisation and better health outcomes.
Furthermore, community education campaigns that reduce stigma around mental health facilitate greater help-seeking behaviour among affected populations.
Therefore, combined economic and cultural interventions create comprehensive support systems that address both structural barriers and social attitudes. This process ensures sustainable improvements in health equity across different population groups.

Show Worked Solution

Economic changes support populations experiencing health inequity because improved financial resources enable better access to healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices. This occurs because economic disadvantage creates barriers to accessing medical services, nutritious food and safe housing.
For example, increasing minimum wages and providing employment opportunities enables low-income families to afford preventive healthcare and quality food. This leads to reduced financial stress and improved capacity to make healthy choices.
Additionally, government investment in affordable housing programs creates stable living environments that support better health outcomes. The reason for this is secure housing reduces exposure to environmental health risks and provides a foundation for accessing education and employment.
Cultural changes address health inequities because they challenge discriminatory attitudes and practices that prevent equal access to healthcare. This happens when healthcare providers receive cultural competency training to better understand diverse populations’ needs.
For instance, implementing culturally appropriate health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples results in increased trust and participation in health programs.
Consequently, this produces higher rates of preventive care utilisation and better health outcomes.
Furthermore, community education campaigns that reduce stigma around mental health facilitate greater help-seeking behaviour among affected populations.
Therefore, combined economic and cultural interventions create comprehensive support systems that address both structural barriers and social attitudes. This process ensures sustainable improvements in health equity across different population groups.

♦♦ Mean mark 50%.

HMS, HAG 2019 HSC 32b

To what extent has the inequity gap changed for TWO population groups as a result of government interventions? (12 marks)

--- 28 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Judgment Statement

Government interventions have achieved moderate success in reducing health inequities for rural Australians and older people. Evidence shows significant improvements in access and some health outcomes, though substantial gaps remain.

Rural and Remote Australians

Government interventions have moderately reduced health inequities for rural Australians through improved access initiatives. The Royal Flying Doctor Service connects remote communities with emergency and primary healthcare services. Medicare telehealth consultations enable rural patients to access specialists without travelling long distances. The Rural Health Strategy provides additional funding for medical equipment and practitioners in regional areas.
These interventions demonstrate measurable improvements in healthcare access rates. Emergency response times have decreased in many remote regions. Specialist consultation rates have increased through digital health platforms. However, significant challenges remain as rural Australians still experience higher mortality rates than metropolitan populations. Chronic disease management continues to lag behind urban standards, indicating partial effectiveness of current interventions.

Older Australians

Government interventions show substantial progress in supporting healthy ageing and reducing inequities for older Australians. My Aged Care coordinates support services and helps older people access appropriate care. The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccinations specifically targeting older adults’ health needs. Medicare subsidises preventive health checks for people aged 65 and over.
Evidence supports significant positive outcomes from these targeted interventions. Aged care service utilisation rates have increased substantially over recent years. Preventable hospitalisation rates for older people have decreased due to better community support. Life expectancy for older Australians continues to improve, suggesting successful health promotion strategies. These interventions effectively address social isolation and healthcare access barriers that previously created major inequities.

Reaffirmation

Government interventions have achieved moderate success in reducing health inequities for both population groups. Rural health initiatives show promise but require sustained investment to achieve equity with urban areas. Older Australian programs demonstrate stronger outcomes, reflecting more comprehensive policy approaches and adequate resource allocation for this growing demographic.

Show Worked Solution

Judgment Statement

Government interventions have achieved moderate success in reducing health inequities for rural Australians and older people. Evidence shows significant improvements in access and some health outcomes, though substantial gaps remain.

Rural and Remote Australians

Government interventions have moderately reduced health inequities for rural Australians through improved access initiatives. The Royal Flying Doctor Service connects remote communities with emergency and primary healthcare services. Medicare telehealth consultations enable rural patients to access specialists without travelling long distances. The Rural Health Strategy provides additional funding for medical equipment and practitioners in regional areas.
These interventions demonstrate measurable improvements in healthcare access rates. Emergency response times have decreased in many remote regions. Specialist consultation rates have increased through digital health platforms. However, significant challenges remain as rural Australians still experience higher mortality rates than metropolitan populations. Chronic disease management continues to lag behind urban standards, indicating partial effectiveness of current interventions.

Older Australians

Government interventions show substantial progress in supporting healthy ageing and reducing inequities for older Australians. My Aged Care coordinates support services and helps older people access appropriate care. The National Immunisation Program provides free vaccinations specifically targeting older adults’ health needs. Medicare subsidises preventive health checks for people aged 65 and over.
Evidence supports significant positive outcomes from these targeted interventions. Aged care service utilisation rates have increased substantially over recent years. Preventable hospitalisation rates for older people have decreased due to better community support. Life expectancy for older Australians continues to improve, suggesting successful health promotion strategies. These interventions effectively address social isolation and healthcare access barriers that previously created major inequities.

Reaffirmation

Government interventions have achieved moderate success in reducing health inequities for both population groups. Rural health initiatives show promise but require sustained investment to achieve equity with urban areas. Older Australian programs demonstrate stronger outcomes, reflecting more comprehensive policy approaches and adequate resource allocation for this growing demographic.

♦♦ Mean mark 45%.

HMS, HAG 2022 HSC 31ai

Outline TWO social attributes that have contributed to health inequities experienced by a population group in Australia. (3 marks)

--- 8 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Any TWO of the following

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples (social exclusion)

Social exclusion affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through historical disconnection from mainstream services and community networks.
This isolation reduces access to healthcare, employment opportunities, and social support systems that promote wellbeing.

Socioeconomically disadvantaged (educational disadvantage)

Educational disadvantage creates barriers to health literacy and employment for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
Lower education levels limit understanding of health information and reduce income potential, affecting ability to access quality healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices.

Culturally and linguistically diverse (cultural discrimination)

Cultural discrimination impacts culturally and linguistically diverse populations through language barriers and prejudice in healthcare settings.
This discrimination reduces trust in health services and creates reluctance to seek medical help when needed.

Rural and remote (geographic isolation)

Geographic isolation affects rural and remote populations through limited access to specialist services and transport difficulties.
Distance barriers prevent regular health monitoring and emergency care access, leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes.

Show Worked Solution

Any TWO of the following

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples (social exclusion)

Social exclusion affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through historical disconnection from mainstream services and community networks.
This isolation reduces access to healthcare, employment opportunities, and social support systems that promote wellbeing.

Socioeconomically disadvantaged (educational disadvantage)

Educational disadvantage creates barriers to health literacy and employment for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.
Lower education levels limit understanding of health information and reduce income potential, affecting ability to access quality healthcare and healthy lifestyle choices.

Culturally and linguistically diverse (cultural discrimination)

Cultural discrimination impacts culturally and linguistically diverse populations through language barriers and prejudice in healthcare settings.
This discrimination reduces trust in health services and creates reluctance to seek medical help when needed.

Rural and remote (geographic isolation)

Geographic isolation affects rural and remote populations through limited access to specialist services and transport difficulties.
Distance barriers prevent regular health monitoring and emergency care access, leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes.

♦ Mean mark 49%.

HMS, HAG 2024 HSC 27

Select ONE of the following groups that experience health inequities:

Socioeconomically disadvantaged people
People in rural and remote areas
Overseas-born people
The elderly
People with disabilities

To what extent do socioeconomic factors affect the health of this group? (8 marks)

Group selected:............................................................................................

--- 30 WORK AREA LINES (style=lined) ---

Show Answers Only

Group selected: People with disabilities

Introduction – Overall judgement

Socioeconomic factors significantly affect the health of people with disabilities in Australia
Create a cycle of disadvantage that severely impacts both physical and mental wellbeing
Influence multiple aspects of life including healthcare access, housing, and social participation

Employment barriers – Primary socioeconomic influence

Approximately 30% lower employment rates than general population
Limited income potential restricts ability to afford:
- Specialised healthcare services not covered by Medicare
- Gap payments for NDIS-supported therapies
- Essential assistive technologies and modifications
Directly impacts access to vital treatments, therapies, and medications

Educational disadvantage – Compounding factor

Physical access barriers and inadequate support in educational settings
Lower completion rates of secondary and tertiary education
Results in limited employment options and lower-paying positions
Creates cycle of disadvantage affecting ability to afford:
- Private health insurance
- Preventative healthcare services
- Regular health monitoring

Housing challenges – Financial manifestation

Limited accessible housing options at premium prices
Contributes to housing stress and potential homelessness
Associated mental health conditions including anxiety and depression
Extended waiting lists for accessible public housing (often several years)
Many forced to live in unsuitable accommodation that compromises health and safety

Counter-argument – Other determinants:

Environmental barriers exist regardless of socioeconomic status
Healthcare system gaps include inaccessible facilities and equipment
Societal attitudes and stigma affect quality of care
Healthcare professionals’ lack of disability awareness leads to diagnostic overshadowing
These factors can affect health independent of financial means

Predominant influence – Financial burden:

Gap payments for therapies not fully covered by support systems
Specialised equipment costs beyond subsidies
Home modifications essential for independence
Significant portion of household income consumed by disability-related expenses
Disability Support Pension often insufficient, falling below poverty line
Forces difficult choices between healthcare needs and other essentials

Conclusion – Final judgment:

Socioeconomic factors affect health of people with disabilities to a very large extent
While other factors contribute, financial disadvantage creates the most pervasive barriers
Long-term cycle of disadvantage significantly impacts:
- Quality of life
- Health outcomes
- Life expectancy for Australians with disabilities

Show Worked Solution

Group selected: People with disabilities

Introduction – Overall judgement

Socioeconomic factors significantly affect the health of people with disabilities in Australia
Create a cycle of disadvantage that severely impacts both physical and mental wellbeing
Influence multiple aspects of life including healthcare access, housing, and social participation

Employment barriers – Primary socioeconomic influence

Approximately 30% lower employment rates than general population
Limited income potential restricts ability to afford:
- Specialised healthcare services not covered by Medicare
- Gap payments for NDIS-supported therapies
- Essential assistive technologies and modifications
Directly impacts access to vital treatments, therapies, and medications

Educational disadvantage – Compounding factor

Physical access barriers and inadequate support in educational settings
Lower completion rates of secondary and tertiary education
Results in limited employment options and lower-paying positions
Creates cycle of disadvantage affecting ability to afford:
- Private health insurance
- Preventative healthcare services
- Regular health monitoring

Housing challenges – Financial manifestation

Limited accessible housing options at premium prices
Contributes to housing stress and potential homelessness
Associated mental health conditions including anxiety and depression
Extended waiting lists for accessible public housing (often several years)
Many forced to live in unsuitable accommodation that compromises health and safety

Counter-argument – Other determinants:

Environmental barriers exist regardless of socioeconomic status
Healthcare system gaps include inaccessible facilities and equipment
Societal attitudes and stigma affect quality of care
Healthcare professionals’ lack of disability awareness leads to diagnostic overshadowing
These factors can affect health independent of financial means

Predominant influence – Financial burden:

Gap payments for therapies not fully covered by support systems
Specialised equipment costs beyond subsidies
Home modifications essential for independence
Significant portion of household income consumed by disability-related expenses
Disability Support Pension often insufficient, falling below poverty line
Forces difficult choices between healthcare needs and other essentials

Conclusion – Final judgment:

Socioeconomic factors affect health of people with disabilities to a very large extent
While other factors contribute, financial disadvantage creates the most pervasive barriers
Long-term cycle of disadvantage significantly impacts:
- Quality of life
- Health outcomes
- Life expectancy for Australians with disabilities

♦♦ Mean mark 45%.