Counsel #8 — Equity And Equality In The Hospital

Picture: Counsel #8 — Equity And Equality In The HospitalCSI 75.1

Often hospitals are like microcosms of our society. Sadly, money, influence, and race sometimes play a silent role in determining who gets a hospital room and who ends up in the waiting area.CSI 75.2

Ideally, hospitals would offer quality health care to all, regardless of wealth, status, race, or insurance. As places built for healing, hospitals should not perpetuate inequalities, but fight them.^{[112]https://dcha.org/back-to-basics-what-you-need-to-know-about-hospitals-and-health-equity/}CSI 75.3

In our imperfect world hospitals will never consistently embody Jesus’ ideals. Still, as individuals we can make a difference. Next time you're at the hospital, look around, is there someone who might need a hand? Give a person a smile; take time to chat, or even just hold the door open for someone. Do what you can! With prayer and the Holy Spirit’s insight, we can be the change we want to see in the world.CSI 75.4

"Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was sick and you looked after me.’" Matthew 25:34-36 NIVCSI 75.5

“The selfish principles exercised on the earth are not the principles which will prevail in heaven. All men stand on an equality in heaven…” Ellen Gould White, Counsels on Stewardship (1940), p. 133CSI 75.6

Reflect: Who can you offer a helping hand to the next time you're at a hospital? How can you contribute to making healthcare more equitable for everyone?CSI 75.7