3 Access to Health Care Free Online FlashCards

What does access to health care mean?

Access is the degree of fit between people’s health needs and the health system’s ability to provide care they can use.

What does availability mean in health care access?

Availability is whether enough of the right kinds of services and providers exist to meet people’s needs.

Which circumstances can shape the impact of access barriers?

Income, employment conditions, education, transportation, housing, and discrimination can affect how strongly barriers limit care.

What does accessibility mean in health care access?

Accessibility is whether people can reach services, considering factors such as location, travel time, and transportation.

What does accommodation mean in health care access?

Accommodation is whether service arrangements—such as appointment systems, hours, and language support—fit people’s circumstances.

What does affordability mean in health care access?

Affordability is whether the cost of care fits a person’s financial resources, including direct and indirect expenses.

What does acceptability mean in health care access?

Acceptability is whether patients and providers view the care relationship and service as respectful and appropriate.

How can a clinic exist while service availability remains inadequate?

A community may have a clinic but lack a psychiatrist, specialist, or appointments for new patients.

Why might a nearby clinic still be inaccessible?

A nearby clinic may still be difficult to reach if someone lacks reliable transportation or an accessible route.

How can clinic hours create an accommodation barrier?

A clinic open only during work hours may be hard to use for someone who cannot take time off.

What costs can affect health care affordability?

Care costs can include insurance premiums, deductibles, copayments, medicines, travel, and lost wages.

What can influence whether care feels acceptable?

Trust, privacy, cultural understanding, communication, and freedom from stigma or discrimination can shape acceptability.