PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACTS OF PRECISION MEDICINE: BALANCING INNOVATION WITH ACCESSIBILITY

Precision medicine (PM) holds significant potential for enhancing the management of chronic illnesses and inherited conditions. The access to PM is still inconsistent, especially among different geographic and socioeconomic demographics. This research investigates the efficiency, availability, and fairness of PM in addressing different health issues. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was used, integrating numerical data from hospital records, national health databases, and government statistics, with qualitative interviews conducted with healthcare providers and patients. Data from 500 individuals were examined, concentrating on cancer, long-term illnesses, and hereditary conditions. Quantitative analysis employed regression analysis and chi-square tests, whereas thematic analysis was utilized for qualitative data. The research revealed notable enhancements in survival rates and health results for patients, especially those with cancer. It was discovered that access to PM was restricted in rural regions and among low-income communities, emphasizing a technological gap in healthcare availability. Urban populations experienced greater access to PM, with differences associated with healthcare infrastructure and socioeconomic conditions. Although PM provides significant health advantages, its execution is hampered by unequal access. Policymakers should focus on enhancing healthcare facilities in underserved areas and guaranteeing fair access to PM for every demographic group.