| Definition | Ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, regardless of their socio-economic or demographic background. | The state of having the same level of health and access to healthcare services for all individuals, regardless of differences. |
| Focus | Addresses disparities and inequalities in health outcomes, resources, and access to healthcare based on historical, social, and economic factors. | Strives for equal distribution of resources and healthcare services to all individuals, regardless of their needs or existing disparities. |
| Approach | Recognizes and seeks to rectify existing disparities in health by providing additional support and resources to those who are disadvantaged. | Promotes equal treatment and access to healthcare services without considering the existing disparities or unique needs of different populations. |
| Individualization | Tailored interventions and resources are provided to specific groups or individuals to address their unique needs and barriers to health. | Uniform treatment and resource allocation are applied to all individuals or groups, regardless of their unique circumstances or challenges. |
| Goal | Strives for fairness and justice in health outcomes, acknowledging that different groups may require different levels of support to achieve the same outcomes. | Aims for identical access and outcomes in healthcare services, assuming that a one-size-fits-all approach will address disparities. |
| Key Principle | Recognizes that achieving health equity may require differential treatment to overcome existing inequalities. | Emphasizes uniformity and sameness in the distribution of resources and access to healthcare services. |
| Emphasis on Needs | Focuses on meeting the specific needs of marginalized or disadvantaged populations to level the playing field in health outcomes. | Places emphasis on treating all individuals the same, regardless of their unique challenges or historical disadvantages. |
| Results | Aspires to reduce health disparities and achieve more equitable health outcomes among different population groups. | Seeks to provide equal access and treatment without necessarily addressing underlying disparities. |
| Example | Providing additional healthcare services and resources to underserved communities to improve their health outcomes. | Offering the same healthcare services and resources to all communities, irrespective of existing disparities. |
