Which practice supports achieving health equity?

• A. Providing the same resources to all, regardless of need.
• B. Addressing disparities by providing resources based on need.
• C. Ignoring social determinants of health.
• D. Treating all populations identically.

Answer: (B)

Health equity means giving people what they need to reach the same health outcomes, not simply giving everyone the same thing. To move toward equity, resources and interventions must be directed where disparities are greatest, addressing the barriers that prevent some groups from achieving good health. This is why providing resources based on need is the best choice: it targets the underlying gaps, so those facing more obstacles—like cost, access, or language barriers—receive the support essential to improve their health.

Giving the same resources to all, regardless of need, creates equality on the surface but often leaves existing gaps unaddressed, since some groups start from more challenging positions. Ignoring social determinants of health means missing the root causes that drive disparities, making it harder to close gaps. Treating all populations identically again reflects equality rather than equity and fails to account for differing needs and barriers.