How is distributive justice defined in healthcare?

Distributive justice in healthcare is fundamentally about the fair allocation of resources, services, and opportunities to ensure that all individuals have access to the care they need. Choosing to base eligibility for services on income and fiscal resources aligns with this principle, as it acknowledges the social determinants of health and the economic barriers that can prevent individuals from accessing necessary healthcare. By considering these factors, distributive justice seeks to level the playing field, allowing those with fewer resources to receive care that might otherwise be inaccessible to them.

This approach recognizes that healthcare resources are limited and must be allocated in a way that maximizes overall benefit and addresses disparities in access. It prioritizes not just equality of access but equity—where individuals receive care commensurate with their needs and circumstances, rather than a blanket approach that might not address the underlying inequalities present in society.

In contrast, other options suggest criteria for resource allocation that would not adequately address the disparities in healthcare access and treatment. For example, providing care to all patients regardless of ability to pay, while noble, does not specify a method for distributing resources effectively when they are limited. Alternatively, determining eligibility based on personal relationships or ensuring equal treatment regardless of clinical need fails to consider the critical factors like income and medical necessity that are essential