Student nurses’ perceptions of the root causes of health care disparities

Abstract

Background: Healthcare disparities persist, resulting in inequities in access, quality, and health outcomes across populations. Addressing these factors through targeted strategies is essential for fostering equitable healthcare. Exploring student nurses’ perceptions of the root causes of health inequities throughout their nursing education is vital to training nurses to better treat their patients, both current and future.
Methods: A mixed-methods survey explored student nurses’ perceptions of the root causes of healthcare disparities, focusing on their awareness, attitudes, and beliefs. This cross-sectional study spanned one academic year and involved student nurses at various stages of their undergraduate education.
Results: Student nurses identify socioeconomic status, limited access to healthcare, and lack of health insurance coverage as the primary contributors to healthcare disparities. Findings inform that curricular enhancements in structural competency, resource navigation, and advocacy preparation are needed to strengthen readiness for equity-oriented nursing practice.
Conclusions: Integrating comprehensive Social Determinants of Health education into nursing curricula can better prepare future nurses for improved care delivery and reduce biases in healthcare settings.

Keywords

Healthcare disparities / Mixed methods research / Nursing education / Social determinants of health / Social ecological model

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