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Impact of Income Support Programs on Health Equity among the African American Population in Buffalo, New York


Author: Mohammed Alqahtani, Mengzhong Zhang*
College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences, Gannon University, Erie 16541, USA.
Published Date: 2024-07-11
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Keywords: Healthcare disparities; income support programs; poverty levels; access to healthcare.
Abstract:
This study investigates the impact of income and poverty on access to healthcare services among the Buffalo, New York, African American population. The study is motivated by the persistent healthcare disparities experienced by this population, despite efforts to improve health equity. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to establish the context of the study and identify gaps in the existing literature. The study employed a survey design, with a sample size of 280 African American respondents in Buffalo, New York. The data collected was analyzed using Excel as it was suited to the study. The study's findings reveal that income support programs are crucial in ensuring access to healthcare for all, regardless of income or poverty status. Poverty levels were also found to significantly impact access to healthcare among African Americans in Buffalo, New York, with low-income individuals and families facing numerous financial, social, and structural barriers to accessing essential healthcare services. In addition, income levels were found to have an impact on access to prescription drugs, which could limit the ability of African Americans to manage their health conditions effectively. The study recommends that policymakers develop and implement interventions that address income inequality and reduce poverty among vulnerable populations, such as African Americans. Healthcare providers should also develop programs to improve access to healthcare services and prescription drugs for low-income individuals and families. Future research should explore the impact of other factors, such as health literacy, cultural beliefs, and healthcare system structures, on healthcare access among African Americans in Buffalo, New York.