Health inequities and marginalized groups: An overview for college student travelers and travel health professionals

Abstract

One of the main goals of college- and university-sponsored travel is to broaden the global perspectives of student travelers, thereby enhancing their ability to effectively communicate and work with people from different cultural backgrounds. Pre-travel consultations are important for all students traveling internationally, and especially for those facing current or past health inequities and marginalization. To offer high quality, inclusive services, college travel health clinicians must understand both the student traveler population and cultural norms at the travel destinations, especially those related to health and safety. This article provides an overview of health equity definitions and pre-travel preparation through an equity lens. It also reviews travel health equity-related clinical implications including: helping to prepare student travelers for issues related to gender, sexuality, identity, and sexual assault; assisting travelers with preexisting health conditions and disabilities; and serving older student travelers and travelers with financial limitations.