Addressing the Needs of Underserved, Vulnerable, and Marginalized Populations In Module 1, Week 1 Discussion: Allegory of the Orchard
Addressing the Needs of Underserved, Vulnerable, and Marginalized Populations
In Module 1, Week 1 Discussion: Allegory of the Orchard, I selected the population of underserved, vulnerable, and marginalized groups, specifically focusing on economically disadvantaged individuals, racial and ethnic minorities, and those with limited access to healthcare. These populations face significant barriers that perpetuate their vulnerability, including socioeconomic disparities, restricted access to quality education, and systemic discrimination (World Health Organization, 2022). Vulnerable populations include economic instability, inadequate education, poor neighborhood conditions, and limited access to healthcare (National Collaborating Centre for Determinants of Health, 2022). These factors contribute to a cycle of poverty and poor health outcomes, making it difficult for individuals to break free from their vulnerable status (SpringerLink, 2023).
The primary advocacy priorities for underserved, vulnerable, and marginalized populations include improving access to healthcare, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting health equity (American Psychological Association, 2025). Policies should focus on expanding Medicaid, increasing funding for community health centers, and implementing programs that address food insecurity and housing instability (Legal Council for Health Justice, 2025). The needs of this population are multifaceted and include access to affordable healthcare, stable housing, nutritious food, and quality education (ASPR, 2022). Additionally, there is a need for culturally competent care that respects and addresses the unique challenges faced by these groups (AJMC, 2022).
Disparities are often reflected in policies that fail to address the root causes of inequality. For example, the lack of Medicaid expansion in certain states exacerbates health disparities by limiting access to healthcare for low-income individuals (Institute for Public Health, 2016). Conversely, policies that promote health equity, such as the Affordable Care Act, can help reduce disparities by providing broader access to healthcare services (Economic Policy Institute, 2023). Nurses play a crucial role in influencing policy decisions that impact vulnerable populations. Individually, nurses can advocate for their patients by participating in policy discussions, joining professional organizations, and engaging in community outreach (OJIN: The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 2018). The nursing profession can leverage its expertise and numbers to push for systemic changes that promote health equity and improve outcomes for underserved populations (Nurse Journals.org, 2024).
