Introduction to the Interconnectedness of Social Determinants of Care
Regarding public health, it’s important to understand the factors that influence individual and community well-being. For instance, social determinants of health play a crucial role in shaping health outcomes. As discussed in our earlier articles, these social determinants are dependent on education, physical environment, economic stability, social support networks, and access to affordable healthcare.
Although these topics were each discussed individually, it’s important to note that they are often connected. For instance, patients who face one of the social determinants of care often face the other ones as well. Therefore, it’s important that doctors screen for all of these determinants so that a holistic plan can be made that assists patients in receiving the assistance they need.
Interconnectedness Between Social Determinants
As discussed in our third blog post, lack of education is a social determinant of care that can lead to worsening health outcomes [1]. Oftentimes, there is a correlation between education and socioeconomic status, especially when 72% of jobs by 2031 will require more than a high school diploma [2]. This means that patients who lack education may find themselves also having lower socioeconomic statuses. This can make it harder for them to access high-quality and affordable care. Furthermore having a lower socioeconomic status can cause patients to live in physical environments or communities that are not as safe or healthy. For instance, those with lower socioeconomic status may have to resort to cheaper living options, which may come with hazardous situations like mold, higher rates of crime, and inadequate infrastructure [3].
Additionally, having a lower socioeconomic status or lacking economic stability can make it harder for patients to access affordable healthcare. As discussed in our 4th blog post, lacking access to healthcare leads to delayed treatments which makes treatment more complicated and expensive [4]. Furthermore, it’s important to note that patients who lack access to community support and peer groups can also lack access to necessities including healthcare. Patients who lack economic stability can benefit from community support such as transportation, affordable healthcare [5], and access to necessities like food and shelter. Therefore, patients dealing with social determinants such as a lack of community support may also face worsening health outcomes. This exacerbates health disparities and makes it harder for patients to better their health.
Overcoming Interconnectedness of Social Determinants of Care
One of the most important things providers can do is to screen for patients who face these social determinants of health. Only then can they begin to address these barriers and support their patients. Furthermore, lack of community support can significantly impact access to care and health outcomes, making it a crucial aspect of the social determinants of health. Strong communities provide resources, social networks, and advocacy. Specifically, communities can help patients navigate healthcare systems, access services, and maintain their overall health [6].
When community support is lacking, individuals may face barriers such as limited access to healthcare facilities, transportation challenges, and reduced opportunities for preventive care and health education. This exacerbates health disparities and contributes to poorer health outcomes, especially for marginalized populations. Addressing these social determinants of care requires a comprehensive approach that strengthens community infrastructure, increases access to resources, and promotes equity in healthcare. For instance, communities often provide financial support that assists with housing and even affordable education opportunities. This can help patients overcome other determinants of health and ultimately lead to decreased barriers to healthcare. Therefore, doctors must collaborate with community organizations to connect patients with the assistance and support they need to better their health outcomes.
HITS
HITS provides healthcare management services & works with doctors to develop health informatics tools that promote safe and secure care. We take pride in our services and settle for nothing other than 100% quality solutions for our clients. Having the right team assist with data sharing is crucial to encouraging collaborative and secure care. HITS also focuses on transforming health care by analyzing integrated medical solutions and evaluating information systems. Our goal is to enhance individual and population health outcomes, improve patient care, and strengthen the clinician-patient relationship.
References
- https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/navigating-the-social-determinants-of-care-the-correlation-between-education-health/
- https://edsource.org/updates/report-72-of-jobs-will-require-more-than-a-high-school-diploma-in-2031
- https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/navigating-the-social-determinants-of-care-health-disparities-in-rural-urban-communities/
- https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/navigating-the-social-determinants-of-care-lack-of-access-to-affordable-healthcare/
- https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/navigating-the-social-determinants-of-care-lack-of-economic-stability-causes-disparities-in-care/
- https://healthinformationtechnologysolutions.com/navigating-the-social-determinants-of-care-the-importance-of-community-support/
