Healthcare Provision for Marginalized Populations

Social vulnerability is a concept defined by physical, social, economic and environmental factors, which, together with individual or social characteristics such as poverty, ethnicity, marginalisation, etc., increase the negative impact of a potential risk. Disadvantaged population groups are usually structured by such characteristics and as a result experience inequalities that affect their rights. In this light, a fundamental human right that is under attack is that of health and, by extension, access to health care. Public health systems play an important role in mitigating or exacerbating this social inequality. With health inequalities being a real and present danger that needs to be addressed, ways of reducing this phenomenon have been identified, but they must be strengthened, with the necessary contribution from state mechanisms. 

Aim: The aim of this research project is to document and highlight the inequalities faced by disadvantaged population groups in accessing healthcare, with an emphasis on social vulnerability. In addition, ways of eliminating social inequalities in healthcare are proposed. 

Method and materials: The methodology followed for the development of this thesis is a literature review of scientific journals, textbooks, books, and the internet, with the aim of providing the most accurate depiction of the phenomenon of medical tourism based on real-world data.