Health Disparity Essay

Explain the Most Common Health Disparities Found Among Clients Receiving Care at Your Clinical Site.
Thus far, each and every patient I have assisted in providing care to, in the care management office at Penobscot Community Health Care – Brewer Medical Center, has had diabetes mellitus. Although a patient may be referred to care management due to health disparities other than diabetes mellitus, according to my preceptor, diabetes mellitus is the most common health disparity amongst the patients she serves in this community. As the prevalence of diabetes mellitus continues to rise, the need for incorporation of all levels of preventative health interventions is critical. Although many patients may be referred to care management due to their diabetes mellitus, many require health education regarding management of their comorbidities. Due to the multifactorial nature of diabetes mellitus type two, patients often require a great deal of education. Patients do not only receive education regarding dietary recommendations, but are also instructed on medication adherence, the importance of checking blood sugars …show more content…
I believe preventative health care must be the top priority, in order to decrease the increasing rate of individuals affected by diabetes mellitus. All patient’s, regardless of their current health practices and family history, must be educated on the risk factors associated with the development of diabetes. Furthermore, health care providers must provide all patients with education regarding dietary recommendations and the importance of regular physical activity, in the aim of decreasing the occurrence of diabetes mellitus type two through primary prevention measures. Referral to a care manager may be appropriate at this time, as many individuals require assistance with making certain lifestyle