Healthcare disparities generally refers to differences in the quality of health care across individuals or groups in regard to access, treatment options, and preventative services. Vulnerability as a concept originated from a variety of disciplines including economics, sociology, anthropology, and environmental science. Segments of the global population experience social inequalities and are at risk for poor health outcomes. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are keenly aware that any individual can become vulnerable at any point in their life; however, it is well documented in the literature that health outcomes and vulnerability fall along a social gradient and that poorer people experience poorer health ... This global phenomenon is seen in low-, middle-, and high-income countries ... Primary care nurse practitioners with a strong educational base have a longstanding commitment to cultural competence and social justice. As integral members of the healthcare delivery team, NPs are well positioned for leadership roles in addressing the gaps in health prevention and treatment to rehighlight certain groups as vulnerable populations and attempt to build an understanding of the needs within the various groups.
DeNisco, S. M., & Stewart, J. G. (2019). Vulnerable populations. In J.G. Stewart & S. M. DeNisco (Eds.), Role development for the nurse practitioner (2nd ed., pp. 59-88). Burlington, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Book chapter in Role Development for the Nurse Practitioner.