The health care system in the United States has been called the best in the world, but many of its residents cannot afford or do not have access to adequate care. Health Disparities in the United States explores how socioeconomic status, race, and ethnic make-up affect health disparities; what the wide gulf in care and health outcomes means for the medical community, cultural subsets, and society at large; and how to address the issue effectively. Topics examined include:* The relationship between income and social status and health care and outcomes* The effect of race and ethnicity on health and the availability of care* Conscious, unconscious, and institutionalized bias in treatment options* How and when race and ethnicity should be taken into account in treating illness* Practical and practicable ideas for reducing health disparities Analyzing the complex web of social forces that influence health outcomes in the United States, this book is a vital teaching tool and a comprehensive reference for social science and medical professionals.