When Inner Cities Are Motivated by Compassion

Abstract

AbstractProviding palliative care is especially challenging in our inner-city areas. Social determinants of health and living conditions impact access by residents to healthcare, including how, where, and when care is received. Palliative social workers in inner-city settings are sensitive to recognizing cultural beliefs, spiritual supports, the impact of racism and classism, and the need for social justice. It is recommended that palliative social workers engage more fully in mezzo- and macro-level practices, within and across healthcare institutions and inner-city organizations, at the grassroots level as part of a wise overall strategy to advocate for sustainable changes that improve access to quality healthcare. It is especially important to address unmet needs that undermine the health of underserved populations, such as residents without housing or contending with substance abuse. These efforts may include making telehealth more accessible and affordable for use in inner-city community settings. A variety of innovative organizational and community programs and collaborations are promising.