Overcoming Barriers to Health Equity in Underserved Communities: Practical Solutions and Pathways Forward

By James AndersonLast Updated September 4, 2025

Photo by NIA ZERA on Unsplash

Introduction: The Urgency of Advancing Health Equity

Health equity remains a fundamental goal for modern health systems, yet persistent challenges disproportionately impact underserved communities across the United States and globally. The consequences are both profound and measurable: individuals in these communities experience higher rates of chronic illness, lower life expectancy, and reduced access to quality care. Overcoming these barriers is not only a matter of justice, but also essential for the health of society as a whole [2] . This article explores the most pressing health equity challenges facing underserved populations and provides detailed, actionable steps to access resources, enact change, and pursue better outcomes.

Understanding Health Equity Challenges

Health equity means that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their highest level of health. However, systemic barriers-including socioeconomic disadvantage, racial and ethnic discrimination, and limited access to care-create deep and persistent inequities. These obstacles are particularly acute for communities of color, rural populations, and people living in low-income or marginalized settings [1] .

For example, recent data show that Black infants in the U.S. are more than twice as likely to die as White infants, and American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian infants also experience much higher mortality rates. Diabetes-related mortality is roughly two times higher for some minority groups compared to White people, and life expectancy gaps remain significant [2] . These disparities are rooted in historical and contemporary policy decisions, economic inequity, and unequal education and housing opportunities [3] .

Barriers to Accessing Quality Health Services

Underserved communities frequently face several interconnected barriers:

Limited Health Insurance Coverage: Many people in marginalized groups are uninsured or underinsured, restricting their ability to access preventive and necessary care. States that have not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act exhibit particularly large coverage gaps [2] .
Provider Shortages: There is a lack of primary care providers in many rural and low-income urban neighborhoods, resulting in longer wait times and travel distances for basic care [1] .
Technological Gaps: Adoption of digital health tools, such as telemedicine and electronic health records, lags in practices serving underserved populations. This limits access to innovative care and patient engagement technologies [4] .
Cultural and Linguistic Barriers: Discrimination, bias, and lack of culturally competent care contribute to mistrust and poorer health outcomes [3] .

Systemic and Policy-Level Contributors

Decades of policy decisions have shaped the landscape of health equity. Unequal educational opportunities, housing segregation, and employment discrimination all contribute to worse health outcomes for people of color and those living in poverty. For instance, policies that fail to invest in primary health care or that perpetuate the segregation of neighborhoods have long-lasting effects on community health [3] . Addressing these upstream determinants is critical for sustainable progress.

Real-World Examples and Case Studies

Several communities and organizations have implemented innovative solutions to address these barriers:

In certain cities, health systems have partnered with community organizations to establish mobile clinics, bringing care directly to underserved neighborhoods. These efforts have increased vaccination rates and provided preventive screenings that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Some primary care networks have secured grants to improve digital infrastructure, enabling telemedicine appointments for patients in remote areas. This has proven especially valuable for managing chronic diseases and mental health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic [4] .
Community health worker programs have been successful in bridging cultural and linguistic divides, providing education, navigation, and support to patients navigating complex health systems [1] .

Actionable Steps to Access Care and Resources

Individuals and families in underserved communities can pursue care and support through several avenues:

Locate Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): These clinics offer sliding-scale fees and comprehensive services regardless of ability to pay. To find a center, search “Find a Health Center” along with the name of your city or county. The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) maintains an official locator tool on their website.
Explore Medicaid and CHIP Eligibility: Many low-income adults and children qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Visit your state’s official health department website or search “[Your State] Medicaid application” for eligibility guidelines and application steps.
Seek Out Community Health Programs: Local health departments, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations often provide free or low-cost screening, vaccinations, and health education. Ask your local library or social services office for a directory of available programs.
Utilize Telehealth Services: Many providers now offer virtual visits. If you lack internet access or a device, inquire about community digital access programs or seek local clinics that provide telehealth kiosks.
Contact Patient Navigators: Hospitals and clinics may have staff dedicated to helping patients understand their options, enroll in coverage, and access specialist care. Request to speak with a patient navigator or social worker at your healthcare facility.

Overcoming Digital and Technological Barriers

Technology can be a double-edged sword in health equity. While digital tools can expand access, many underserved communities lack reliable internet or devices, and some clinics are slow to adopt new systems. To address this:

Ask your local library, community center, or school district about public internet access or device lending programs.
When visiting a healthcare provider, request information about available telehealth services and support for using digital tools. Some community organizations offer digital literacy workshops for patients.

Engaging with Policy and Advocacy

Advancement in health equity often requires policy change. Community members, advocates, and healthcare providers can:

Join or support coalitions focused on Medicaid expansion, universal coverage, or anti-discrimination in healthcare.
Contact state legislators to advocate for investment in primary care, digital infrastructure, and culturally competent training for health professionals.
Participate in local health equity assessments and planning processes. Many health departments invite public input on community health needs.

Alternative Approaches and Ongoing Challenges

When traditional pathways are limited, alternative approaches such as mobile health units, school-based clinics, and faith-based health programs can fill critical gaps. However, ongoing challenges-such as funding instability, workforce shortages, and systemic racism-require long-term, coordinated action at multiple levels.

It is important to recognize that progress may be gradual and uneven. Communities may need to experiment with various models of care delivery and advocacy, while policymakers must remain accountable for closing equity gaps [5] .

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Health equity in underserved communities is achievable through sustained, evidence-based action at the individual, organizational, and policy levels. By leveraging local resources, embracing technology, and engaging in advocacy, both individuals and organizations can make measurable progress. For those seeking to access services:

Start by identifying local clinics and health centers through official agency search tools.
Explore eligibility for public insurance programs via your state’s health department.
Seek support from community-based organizations for digital access and patient navigation.
Advocate for policies that prioritize investment in primary care and health equity.

Ongoing monitoring, community engagement, and cross-sector collaboration are essential. By addressing the root causes of inequity and removing practical barriers, we can move closer to a future where high-quality care is accessible to all.