Addressing Socioeconomic Factors Related to Health Disparities in Predominantly Hispanic Texas Communities

Author

• Gabriela M. Gomez, University of the Incarnate WordFollow

Date of Degree

5-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Program

Business Administration

Advisor

Dr. Annette E. Craven

Advisor

Dr. Dawn R. Liguez

Advisor

Dr. Pamelyn S. Witteman

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the socioeconomic factors that influenced health outcomes in predominantly Hispanic Texas communities in San Antonio, Texas. Few studies have been conducted that address how socioeconomic conditions have shaped the lives of the Hispanic population in Texas, indicating a significant gap in the research. The research question guiding this study asked: How do Hispanic individuals between the ages of 26 and 64 who live in predominantly Hispanic communities describe health disparities in San Antonio, Texas? To address the research question, a qualitative inquiry was conducted using semi-structured in-person interviews with participants who met the inclusion criteria. A sample of fifteen Hispanic participants, aged 26 to 64 years old, who lived in San Antonio, had personal or related experience with factors that affected their health, such as housing, education, income, or access to healthcare, and had access to email, were qualified to participate in the study. The data collected included various challenges and barriers they faced related to healthcare access, economic stability, educational resources, and neighborhood issues. The data collection process utilized MAXQDA as the qualitative software for transcribing the interviews. It was also used for the data analysis portion, which employed coding methods and thematic analysis to identify relevant patterns that addressed social determinants affecting health outcomes. Four themes emerged from the data analysis: barriers to health knowledge, affordability, and service availability; concerns with local infrastructure and community safety; limited financial knowledge; and resource gaps in education. The findings demonstrated that health disparities were not only shaped by individual behaviors or genetics, but also by broader socioeconomic and systemic factors. The participants identified barriers across multiple levels of the SEM, from individual experiences to community and political contexts. The results highlighted the importance of viewing health through a fairness and equity perspective, recognizing how social, cultural, and economic factors are closely connected and together shape people’s health. The findings emphasized that promoting health equity in Hispanic communities requires strategies that integrate cultural sensitivity, financial awareness, health education, and community engagement. The study offered practical implications for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations seeking to reduce health inequities through targeted interventions and sustainable programs. A significant gap in research on socioeconomic factors related to health disparities in predominantly Hispanic communities was noted. Future studies should consider expanding the sample size, geographic location, age range, research methods, or other specific ethnic groups to improve future findings.

Recommended Citation

Gomez, Gabriela M., "Addressing Socioeconomic Factors Related to Health Disparities in Predominantly Hispanic Texas Communities" (2026). Theses & Dissertations. 478.
https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/uiw_etds/478