Social Determinants in Healthcare

How do social determinants of health such as education employment and environment impact health outcomes and, What strategies can healthcare systems implement to address these factors in patient care?

Impact of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) on Health Outcomes

1. Education

   • Higher education levels correlate with better health literacy, leading to improved disease prevention and management.
   • Limited education is associated with lower health awareness, increased chronic disease risk, and reduced healthcare access.

2. Employment & Income

   • Stable employment provides financial security, access to healthcare benefits, and better living conditions.
   • Job instability or low-income employment increases stress, limits healthcare access, and contributes to poorer health outcomes.

3. Environment & Housing

   • Safe housing and clean environments reduce exposure to pollutants, infectious diseases, and chronic stress.
   • Poor living conditions, including overcrowding and lack of clean water, contribute to higher rates of respiratory diseases, infections, and mental health issues.

4. Food Security & Nutrition

   • Access to nutritious food supports overall well-being and prevents chronic diseases.
   • Food deserts and economic barriers limit access to healthy food, increasing risks for obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

5. Access to Healthcare & Transportation

   • Proximity to healthcare facilities and affordable transportation influences preventive care utilization.
   • Rural or underserved areas face higher barriers to timely medical care, leading to worse health outcomes.

Strategies for Addressing SDOH in Patient Care

1. Integrating SDOH Screening in Healthcare Settings

   • Use patient intake forms to assess social needs such as housing, food security, and employment.
   • Train healthcare providers to identify and address SDOH-related health risks.

2. Community-Based Partnerships & Resources

   • Collaborate with local organizations, food banks, housing agencies, and employment programs to connect patients with support services.
   • Develop social prescribing programs, where providers refer patients to community-based interventions.

3. Expanding Access to Affordable Care & Preventive Services

   • Implement sliding-scale payment models and financial assistance programs.
   • Increase funding for preventive care, mobile health clinics, and telehealth services in underserved areas.

4. Health Education & Workforce Development

   • Provide culturally and linguistically appropriate health education to improve health literacy.
   • Support job training and economic empowerment programs to improve long-term health outcomes.

5. Policy Advocacy & Structural Changes

   • Advocate for policies that address housing, minimum wage, environmental protections, and universal healthcare access.
   • Support Medicaid expansion and policies that integrate social services with healthcare delivery. APA