The effects of transit corridor developments on the healthcare access of medically fragile vulnerable populations

Transportation has been identified as a major barrier to healthcare access, particularly, within vulnerable population groups. The level of healthcare access that most population segments have in traditional transit systems may be increased with new initiatives that involve complex and large investments in transit oriented developments (TOD) projects. However, the increasing attractiveness of neighborhoods affected by TOD initiatives may result in the gentrification of vulnerable population segments. These vulnerable segments are likely to be relocated into less attractive neighborhoods characterized by inadequate transit systems. This relocation increases the probabilities of reducing healthcare access for these underserved groups leading to an increase in health disparities. The present discussion calls for research to explore relevant factors that affects these dynamics. A framework that enables the identification of individual factors that affect gentrification processes under TOD initiatives as well as quantifying the effects from these processes is suggested in this paper. A system dynamics framework that allows the understanding of the dynamics associated with this system is suggested in this paper. Critical areas for empirical research are highlighted. These are prerequisites for the effective deployment of initiatives that ensure the mitigation of possible negative impacts on vulnerable populations.