Health inequalities

Page content: Overview | Fair Health Facts 2009: report on inequalities in health | Are we there yet? Indicators of inequality in health

Overview

Despite having world class health levels, high life expectancy and one of the best hospital systems in the world, the poorest Victorians continue to experience the highest levels of chronic disease and ill-health – most of which are preventable. Reducing inequality will improve the health of disadvantaged Victorians.

The unequal distribution of health and determinants of health are shown in the reports below and also feature in a number of other publications on the Health status site.

Fair Health Facts 2009: report on inequalities in health

The 15 summary indicators presented in this brochure together provide a brief but comprehensive picture of fair health in Victoria. Where reliable data are available, the Victorian average is compared to the experiences of four population groups identified by A Fairer Victoria.

Those groups are:

• socio-economically disadvantaged,
• Indigenous,
• residents of rural and regional areas,
• people from non-English speaking backgrounds.

The indicators have been organised into four sections that reflect a model of cause, potential change and current action. The aim of reducing inequalities in health is integral to Victorian health and human services programs. This is evident from investments in Victoria’s acute health system, prevention programs such as tobacco control and broader action to address social disadvantage.

Fair Health Facts 2009: report on inequalities in health (170kb, pdf)

Are we there yet? Indicators of inequality in health

This technical report prepared by the Allen Consulting Group provides a profile of the unequal distribution of health and some of the key factors known to influence health. The indicators in this report have been summarised in the publication Fair Health Facts 2009. The report offers a model for presenting indicators of health inequality and establishes baseline data to enable future tracking of progress to reduce inequality. Preparation of this report entailed rigorous selection of indicators and testing of available data. As a result, findings are included on future data development and presentation.

Are we there yet? Indicators of inequality in health (1,007kb, pdf)

top of page