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. 2023 Apr;101(S1):20-35.
doi: 10.1111/1468-0009.12640.

Upstream Policy Changes to Improve Population Health and Health Equity: A Priority Agenda

Rashawn Ray  1 , Paula M Lantz  2 , David Williams  3
Affiliations

Upstream Policy Changes to Improve Population Health and Health Equity: A Priority Agenda

Rashawn Ray et al. Milbank Q. 2023 Apr.

Abstract

Policy Points Upstream factors-social structures/systems, cultural factors, and public policy-are primary forces that drive downstream patterns and inequities in health that are observed across race and locations. A public policy agenda that aims to address inequities related to the well-being of children, creation and perpetuation of residential segregation, and racial segregation can address upstream factors. Past successes and failures provide a blueprint for addressing upstream health issues and inhibit health equity.

Keywords: health equity; policy; population health; race; racism.

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