Equity, Inclusion, and Healthcare Communication: Experiences of Marginalised Populations in Accessing Health Information

Abstract

This study explores equity, inclusion, and healthcare communication with a focus on the experiences of marginalised populations in accessing health information. In many societies, access to accurate and timely health information remains unequal due to socio-economic disparities, geographic location, language barriers, digital exclusion, cultural beliefs, and systemic discrimination. Marginalised populations, including rural dwellers, low-income groups, persons with disabilities, and ethnic minorities, often face significant challenges in obtaining reliable healthcare information. The study examines how these inequalities affect health communication, health-seeking behaviour, and overall health outcomes. A qualitative research approach is adopted through the review of relevant literature and conceptual analysis of equity and inclusion frameworks in healthcare communication. Findings indicate that marginalised populations rely heavily on informal sources such as community leaders, traditional healers, family members, and local health workers, often due to limited access to formal healthcare systems and digital health platforms. The study also reveals that language barriers, low health literacy, and poor infrastructure significantly hinder effective healthcare communication. Furthermore, discrimination and lack of inclusive health policies exacerbate inequities in health information access. The study recommends strengthening inclusive health communication strategies, improving health literacy programmes, promoting multilingual health information systems, and expanding community-based healthcare outreach. It also advocates for the use of digital and traditional media to bridge communication gaps among underserved populations. The research contributes to ongoing discussions on health equity, inclusive communication, and social justice in healthcare delivery systems globally and in developing regions.