Reducing inequality in avoidable emergency admissions: Case studies of local health care systems in England using a realist approach.
John Alexander FordJulia KnightJohn BrittainChris BentleySarah SowdenAna Cristina Castro-ÁvilaTim DoranRichard CooksonPublished in: Journal of health services research & policy (2021)
We did not find any bespoke initiatives that explained the inequality trends. The trends were more likely due to an interplay of multiple health care and wider system factors. Local decision makers need greater awareness, understanding and support to interpret, use and act upon inequality indicators. They are unlikely to find simple, cheap interventions to reduce inequalities in avoidable emergency admissions. Rather, long-term multifaceted interventions are required that embed inequality considerations into mainstream decision making.