Which groups are considered vulnerable populations in community health?

Vulnerable populations in community health are defined by their increased risk of health disparities due to certain socioeconomic and contextual factors. Those facing barriers to healthcare access are fundamentally at a disadvantage because they may struggle with issues such as poverty, lack of insurance, transportation problems, language barriers, and inadequate health literacy. These factors often prevent individuals from obtaining necessary medical care, leading to worse health outcomes compared to more privileged groups.

This recognition is essential for tailoring public health initiatives and policies aimed at reducing inequities in healthcare access and improving overall community health. In contrast, individuals with high incomes and good insurance, people living in urban areas, and those who are generally healthy do not face the same level of risk or barriers in accessing healthcare, thereby not being classified as vulnerable populations.