Understanding Health Perspectives and Values Among People Living in Socio-Economic Vulnerable Circumstances in Flanders

Background: Socio-economic status (SES) is a key health determinant affecting life expectancy, healthcare access, and chronic disease prevalence, yet the health values and needs of people living in socio-economic vulnerable circumstances are often overlooked in traditional health assessments—enforcing health inequities. Approach: This study aims to identify and understand the health perspectives, values, priorities and needs of people living in socio-economic vulnerable circumstances in Flanders, Belgium. Using a qualitative study design, we will engage directly with individuals living in socio-economic vulnerable circumstances through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. A sample of 10–15 participants will be recruited through community partners, including Zorgzaam Leuven, Pioen Vorselaar, and LiCalab, ensuring trusted community workers enhance participant engagement and trust. Semi-structured interviews will explore individual definitions of health, perceived good and bad health factors, and well-being priorities and needs of our study population. An inductive thematic analysis of anonymized transcripts will identify recurring themes, allowing insights into health determinants specific to this underserved population. Data collection and analysis will occur simultaneously, allowing initial findings to refine ongoing data gathering. Results: The findings, to be presented at the conference, will highlight key health values, themes, and indicators that people living in socio-economic vulnerable circumstances in Flanders consider essential for their health and well-being. These results will provide insights into relevant health determinants, priorities, and unmet needs within this demographic, helping to guide more targeted and effective health interventions. Implications: By revealing the health perspectives and values of people living in socio-economic vulnerable circumstances, this research provides critical insights that challenge traditional general health assessments. The next steps involve co-creation workshops aimed at adapting current general health measures to reflect the social, economic, and environmental realities of these disadvantaged groups. This study underscores the importance of community partnership and participatory methods to inform a more inclusive and equitable health system responsive to the local context and the lived experiences of its most underserved citizens

Community engagement · Community health · Health care · Health equity · Health indicator · Population health · Qualitative property · Qualitative research · Social determinants of health · Thematic analysis · Community Health and Development · Health disparities and outcomes · Health, psychology, and well-being