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Bridging Gaps: Provider Perspectives on Integrating Systems for Health Equity

Author

Listed:
  • Brittany R. Schuler

    (School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Ritter Annex 549, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA)

  • Stacey L. Shipe

    (Social Work, Binghamton University, State University of New York, University Downtown Center, 67 Washington St., Binghamton, NY 13902, USA)

  • Astrid Uhl

    (School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Ritter Annex 549, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA)

  • Samantha Smith

    (Bethesda Project, KIPP Dubois Collegiate Academy High School, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA)

  • LaShanta Majeed

    (Turning Points for Children, 415 S 15th St., Philadelphia, PA 19146, USA)

  • Nicole O’Reilly

    (Social Work, McDaniel College, Westminster, MD 21157, USA)

  • Cheri Carter

    (School of Social Work, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Ritter Annex 549, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA)

  • Bradley N. Collins

    (Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA)

Abstract

Health equity is shaped by multiple factors intersecting with service delivery in community-based organizations (CBOs). Providers in under-resourced areas are often the first point of contact for families seeking child development, mental health, and behavioral support. However, system-level barriers hinder service delivery and access. This study explores provider perspectives to identify barriers and inform system-level changes that promote equity in child and family health. Using a narrative qualitative design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 health and mental health professionals from child- and family-serving CBOs. Guided by ecological and strengths-based frameworks, interviews examined provider insights on challenges, strengths, and supports affecting service delivery. Key themes emerged across macro (rights-based policies, racism/oppression), community (environmental impacts, social cohesion), organizational (secondary stress, system fragmentation, provider supports), and family levels (basic needs, parenting support, service access). Findings highlight the need for a multilevel approach that prioritizes rights-based policies, strengthens community cohesion, and improves system integration. Enhancing CBO capacity to address these determinants could advance equity-oriented service delivery and mitigate structural barriers that perpetuate health disparities.

Suggested Citation

  • Brittany R. Schuler & Stacey L. Shipe & Astrid Uhl & Samantha Smith & LaShanta Majeed & Nicole O’Reilly & Cheri Carter & Bradley N. Collins, 2025. "Bridging Gaps: Provider Perspectives on Integrating Systems for Health Equity," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 22(4), pages 1-20, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:22:y:2025:i:4:p:550-:d:1626905
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    References listed on IDEAS

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