# A scoping review of intersectional health research related to the COVID-19 pandemic in North America: key findings

## TL;DR

This review explores how overlapping systems of oppression affected health outcomes during the pandemic in North America, highlighting disparities and the need for inclusive policies.

## Contribution

The study provides a comprehensive overview of intersectional research methods and findings related to the pandemic in North America.

## Key findings

- Intersectional research revealed deepening disparities in healthcare and social services access.
- Lockdowns and changing work conditions disproportionately impacted marginalized groups.
- Decentralizing race in pandemic research contrasts with non-intersectional approaches.

## Abstract

This scoping review maps the key findings of intersectional research related to the COVID-19 pandemic in North America. Intersectional approaches highlight how overlapping systems of oppression shape health and social outcomes.

A total of 21 studies were included, comprising 10 quantitative, 8 qualitative, and 3 mixed-methods designs. Studies were reviewed to assess the use of intersectional research methods and to identify common findings across the literature.

Intersectional research methods are increasingly utilized in pandemic-related studies in North America. Thematic analysis revealed five key themes: deepening disparities in health care systems, barriers to accessing social services, changes to working conditions across economic sectors, impacts of lockdown restrictions, and impacts on mental health. This review also found that interruptions to community connections influenced access to resources, shaping life chances for some populations. Importantly, intersectional research related to the pandemic has often decentralized race, which contrasts with broader non-intersectional studies.

Findings underscore the need for public health policies informed by intersectional frameworks. Inequities related to class, race, and gender highlight the importance of disaggregated data collection as standard practice. Targeted interventions, such as workplace protections for racialized women in precarious jobs, are critical to addressing compounded vulnerabilities and ensuring equity in pandemic responses.