Indigenous Health Gap Analysis

In March of 2008 the Australian Government introduced the Closing the Gap strategy that aims to reduce the disadvantage throughout Indigenous health (Australian Indigenous Health Info Net, 2013). Although the health system is improving there are still major disadvantages with Indigenous Australians compared to non-Indigenous Australians, especially in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander rural and remote communities. Additionally, according to Burchill and Higgins (2005), Close the Gap was implemented to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous Australians, but the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life expectancy is approximately twenty times lower than that of non-Indigenous Australians. Creative Spirits (2016) further state that …show more content…
The person must be fully aware of their financial state and budgets, saves and is able to manage their finances to achieve realistic goals. Social dimension of health refers to the individual developing a sense of connection or belonging. The person has a well-developed network of support based on trust, respect and has also developed a sense of awareness and sensitivity towards the feelings of others. To add, it involves the person’s ability to adapt to the changes in the social environment and action to promote social wellbeing. The spiritual dimensions of health refers to the expanding of an individual’s sense of purpose and meaning in life. The spiritually well individual seeks harmony and balance by openly examining the depth of human purpose and the meaning. Spiritual health is very highly regarded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Spiritual health being a part some larger existence and having a sense of unity with the larger, surrounding environment (Donatelle & Davis, …show more content…
Overcrowding can affect health through both direct and indirect ways. Direct influences effect a person’s physical health and effect social conditions on mental health and well-being. An indirect influence of housing on health effects access to services on both the individual and neighbourhood (Bailie, & Wayte, 2006). Bailie and Wayte (2006) further highlight that overcrowding can lead to tuberculosis and facilitates the spread of numerous common infections or parasitic conditions. These infections can further lead to hearing impairment, learning difficulties, renal disease or heart disease. The financial stress of an overcrowded house and the impacts it has on health outcomes can be associated with more aggravated physical and mental