It is often assumed that health is only a product of an individual’s genetic makeup and lifestyle. Yet, a growing body of research indicates that social determinants are critical in determining health outcomes. According to the CDC, social determinants of health (SDOH) “are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age.” These factors span a wide range of social, economic, and environmental influences, profoundly affecting individual and population health.
Social determinants of health fall under five main domains…
- Economic stability: Being economically stable allows for greater access to essential resources such as food, housing, healthcare improving overall health outcomes
- Education access and quality: Higher levels of education allow for better employment, opportunities, and income, as well as improved health literacy and healthier lifestyles, all positively impacting an individual’s health
- Healthcare access and quality: Having access to quality healthcare is imperative to an individual’s well-being. Insurance coverage, proximity to healthcare facilities, and providers’ cultural competence fall under this domain.
- Neighborhood and built environment: The physical area in which people live has significant impacts on an individual’s health. Safe, clean neighborhoods promote healthier lifestyles, whereas polluted, unsafe ones prevent physical activity and decrease health outcomes.
- Social and community context: Supportive social networks and communities can have positive impacts on physical and mental health, while social isolation and a lack of support act contrary to this.
It is crucial to address these social determinants through comprehensive policies and interventions to improve individuals’ health outcomes. Initiatives in the field of public health should not just concentrate on providing treatment but also on establishing equitable environments that promote health and well-being. Through efforts such as economic intervention, increased educational opportunities, strengthened social communities, improved neighborhoods, and proper healthcare reform, the impacts of social determinants of health can be combated. The prevalence of these social determinants highlights the need for a holistic approach to care in the medical field. By addressing these social determinants of health, we can foster equitable care among patients, ultimately improving the level of care and health outcomes.
Works Cited
Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). (2024, January 17). About CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/about/priorities/why-is-addressing-sdoh-important.html#:~:text=Healthy%20People%202030%20sets%20data,and%20neighborhood%20and%20built%20environment.%20https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/topics/rural-health-disparities#covid-19
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