Inequalities in health care and health statusInequalities in health care have resulted in disparities in health status. The impact is particularly evident amongst social class V who suffer from lower life expectancies (Townsend: 1992).There is consistent evidence that those in social class V are more likely to be exposed to multiple, environmental risks that portend adverse health consequences. They are more likely to encounter pollution, noise, substandard quality housing and crowding. Typically, lower class working conditions leave labourers open to greater physical danger. Heavy lifting or tasks with repetitive strain plus daily contact with toxins, fumes, dust etc, have a negative impact on health (Townsend: 1992)A G.P in an affluent area typically provides a superior service than one in a working class locality. Smaller patient lists allow for longer and swifter access to appointments (Walters: 1980) resulting in greater doctor/patient relations (Townsend: 1992). Twice as many middle class patients are referred to hospital and are more likely to be visited there by their GP. The combination of a GP's likely additional qualifications and greater direct access to x-ray equipment and scanners for those living in affluent areas, results in quicker and more accurate diagnosis (Walters: 1980).Geographically there...
