Editorial: The Case for More Action and More Research into Health Care Provision and Health Inequalities for People with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract

When we accepted the role of guest editors for this special edition on health inequalities, we did not foresee the range and variance of submissions that reflected the lived experience of the health inequalities in people with intellectual disabilities. This is reflected in the diverse and rich mix of studies covering a broad range of topics and methodologies included in this special edition. The pursuit of equity of access to health care is a central objective of many health care systems. These papers collectively illustrate the urgent need to recognise the intersecting influences of gender, disability and other social determinants of health in shaping individuals’ experiences and access to healthcare services. Moreover, these findings highlight the critical importance of incorporating the lived experiences and perspectives of people with intellectual disabilities into research, policy and practice. Looking ahead, it is essential to adopt an intersectional approach that acknowledges diverse and intersecting identities of people with intellectual disabilities, particularly women, in designing and implementing interventions designed to address health inequalities. This requires, not only addressing systemic barriers within healthcare systems, but also challenging societal attitudes and prejudices that perpetuate discrimination and marginalisation.