LINE OF WORK 2
MEASURING THE EQUITY OF THE SPANISH HEALTH SYSTEM
The objective of the equity index developed is to measure the degree of homogeneity in accessibility to the healthcare system, regardless of whether this equity results in poorer or better quality of access.
And we have done so with the aim of contributing to the current debate regarding the equity law, which is currently being approved. As a concept, equity in the healthcare system is an undisputed principle accepted by all in a democratic and advanced society like Spain. Its subjective nature and the multiple parameters that determine it give rise to different interpretations depending on the emphasis each person places on it.
Explaining the factors that determine the equity of the healthcare system is the first step toward an appropriate approach. The next step is to find quantification criteria, seeking to objectify the subjective nature of what equity is and entails.
One of these quantified parameters, and therefore one on which measurement indicators can be developed, is the average waiting time for healthcare.
On the other hand, it is the criterion most understood by citizens. It emphasizes one of the most critical aspects of healthcare systems like ours: accessibility to healthcare services, which determines the speed at which health problems are resolved, the possibilities for resolving the disease, and citizens' quality of life.
The average wait time, measured over time, also helps us assess trends in a key aspect perceived and experienced directly by the patient.
SCOPE OF EQUITY QUANTIFICATION
Measure the degree of homogeneity in accessibility to the health system:
- Between the autonomous communities.
- Between the different specialties.
- And in the areas of the waiting list for first specialty consultation and surgical waiting, as well as the combination of both.
We unconsciously associate the concept of greater equity with higher quality, when it simply means greater homogeneity, whether toward improvement or deterioration. Therefore, these indicators are not intended to determine whether the health system is of higher or lower quality.