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Educational attainment is one of the key social determinants of health influencing health disparities, with individuals without a high school education facing the greatest barriers to wellness, according to the inaugural America’s Health Rankings Health Disparities Report from United Health Foundation.
Particularly, the report found stark health disparities in mental and behavioral health among those without a high school diploma and those who have graduated college. The report also documented maternal health disparities and increased disparities in food insecurity.
“Race and ethnicity, gender, geography, educational attainment and income level should not limit one’s access to health care, or the determinants and outcomes that contribute to our overall well-being,” Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, which is part of UnitedHealth Group, said in a statement. “Our 330,000 team members are dedicated to addressing health disparities and closing gaps in care for the most vulnerable populations.”