Background: There is an increasing interest in the notion of health disparities, inequities and inequalities in Canada and elsewhere. In Canada, individuals with disabilities represent one of six groups identified as particularly vulnerable to health disparities. Method: This paper combines the literature related to the concepts of inequity and inequality with the body of knowledge on health disparities faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities. Results: The value of distinguishing inequity from inequality, particularly as it relates to the experience of individuals with intellectual disabilities, is highlighted. Conclusions: A framework for the study of health inequities based on intellectual impairment is proposed.