Racial diversity significantly influences health care delivery across different regions globally. In North America, the cultural tapestry of countries such as Canada and the U.S. shapes their methods towards health care equity, albeit with varied approaches. The U.S., known for its non-universal coverage, uses a blend of programmatic and regulatory strategies like Medicaid and the National CLAS Standards to tackle equity issues. Nonetheless, gaps in access and outcomes remain, particularly the elevated maternal mortality rates in Black women versus White women. In contrast, Canada’s universal, tax-funded Medicare system highlights its dedication to Indigenous equity through efforts like the TRC Calls to Action and the Indigenous Health Equity Fund. Nevertheless, Indigenous, Black, and immigrant communities still encounter health disparities.

Across the ocean, European countries like Britain and France are also dealing with racial diversity in health care. Britain’s NHS provides universal access, underpinned by legal requirements to reduce health inequalities through initiatives like the National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme. The NHS Race & Health Observatory plays a crucial role in promoting evidence-based removal of biases in health technologies. France, while offering universal coverage and income-related cost-sharing assistance, still faces challenges as some low-income individuals fail to access the available support, leaving particular groups without coverage.

In Africa, nations like Mauritius and South Africa showcase the continent’s varied racial demographics within their health systems. South Africa’s dual public-private health care model struggles with historical inequities, and while the National Health Insurance Act seeks to consolidate resources and access, its gradual implementation has faced legal and operational challenges. Mauritius enjoys a free public health care system but encounters difficulties in maintaining funding and addressing chronic diseases; WHO support focuses on equitable strategies in this small island context.

Similarly, in South America, Colombia and Brazil present diverse racial populations within their health systems. Colombia pursues near-universal coverage through EPS insurers, yet financial pressures and reform attempts threaten access and equity. Brazil’s constitutional guarantee of health via the Sistema Único de Saúde and the Family Health Strategy promotes equity, but racial disparities continue to exist, necessitating initiatives like Mais Médicos to reach underserved regions.

In Oceania, Australia and New Zealand confront their own racial diversity challenges within health care. Australia’s universal Medicare system is enhanced by the Closing the Gap agreement, which aims to address disparities across various social determinants affecting Indigenous populations, although life expectancy remains unequal. New Zealand’s recent health reforms indicate structural modifications intended to improve Māori health equity, yet strategies are still evolving amid ongoing legal disputes.

Comparative examination underscores nations like Australia and Britain as exemplary models for incorporating racial equity into health systems. Australia’s robust equity framework, marked by clear monitoring and collaboration with Indigenous communities, serves as a standard for best practices. Britain’s NHS, supported by legal mandates and operational frameworks to combat inequalities, facilitates targeted systemic initiatives to address racial disparities. Both countries illustrate the significance of comprehensive, transparent, and legally-supported frameworks in promoting health equity in racially diverse environments.