Inégalités de santé, inégalités de soins dans les territoires français

Abstract

Over history, a territorial approach to health issues has played an important role. Often led by physicians themselves based on their observations, it gradually receded during the 20th century because of clinical advances and despite the pursuit of research efforts. Nevertheless, territorial inequalities in health have persisted and have recently deepened as a result of the social and economic crisis. This situation is all the more tangible in France as equality of treatment remains the rule upon which organization of the health system is based. Distance is an important factor in renouncing care. Concentration of the population in major urban and peri-urban areas means that it is necessary to find solutions regarding the management of those who remain separate, either geographically or socially. The justification for the healthcare system is thus to ensure the optimum practice of medicine for the benefit of all, and particularly those in the greatest need. Copyright 2013 Presses de Sciences Po. All rights reserved.