Health Equity Series

Health Equity Education Series

Our Health Equity Education series provides an in-depth exploration of the multifaceted historical and contemporary issues contributing to health inequities. By examining the complex web of factors shaping these disparities, we aim to increase awareness and understanding of the root causes. Additionally, the series offers practical and achievable strategies designed to drive progress and foster equity in health outcomes within our local communities.

Poverty Simulation

The HSC Poverty Simulation is a powerful tool that immerses participants in the real-life experience of living in poverty. This simulation uses the Missouri Community Action Partnership's experiential learning modality, the Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS). During the simulation, individuals assume the roles of low-income families, such as single parents, people with disabilities, and senior citizens on Social Security. Their objective is to manage their finances effectively to secure food, shelter, and other basic necessities over four 15-minute "weeks." Participants interact with various community resources and face the challenges faced by those living in poverty.

Simulation Goals

It's important to note that the simulation is not a game, as it utilizes "play" money, fictional scenarios, and time limits to offer a compelling and educational experience. The goal is to foster empathy and understanding among policymakers, healthcare providers, and other professionals who work with low-income families. By experiencing poverty from different perspectives, participants can engage in meaningful discussions and explore potential solutions to address poverty within their local communities.

Through the Poverty Simulation, participants can expect to develop a heightened awareness of the financial barriers to patient compliance within low-income populations. Additionally, they will gain a deeper understanding of the daily challenges faced by individuals living in poverty. This firsthand experience allows participants to put themselves in someone else's shoes and identify opportunities for improved collaboration with other healthcare professionals and community agencies to alleviate obstacles faced by patients living in poverty.

Our poverty simulations are conducted in collaboration with community organizations who work with people experiencing poverty and homelessness. We are always appreciative of volunteers who would like to help in educating students through these simulations.

Additionally, we try to ensure student participates come from a variety of academic programs and degree levels so that participants can explore these topics in an interprofessional environment.

If you would like to serve as a volunteer, as a participant, or would like your students to participate in an upcoming poverty simulation, please contact our office: hsc.equity@louisville.edu