Posted: July 24th, 2023

SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH

Assignment Requirement

SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
Social Determinants of Health: Unraveling the Interplay Between Society and Well-being

The social determinants of health (SDH) form the bedrock on which the overall well-being of individuals and communities is built. These multifaceted factors encompass various aspects of society, including economic, social, political, and environmental dimensions. Scholars and policymakers alike have recognized the profound impact of SDH on health outcomes, with a growing body of research illuminating the intricate interconnections between these determinants and human health. In this article, we will delve into the significance of SDH, explore their far-reaching effects on public health, and discuss the implications for equitable and effective health policies.

The Dimensions of Social Determinants of Health
1.1 Socioeconomic Status (SES)

Socioeconomic status is a pivotal social determinant that encapsulates an individual’s income, education, and occupation. Extensive research has highlighted the strong correlation between SES and health outcomes, with lower SES individuals experiencing a higher burden of health disparities, such as increased rates of chronic diseases, limited access to healthcare, and reduced life expectancy. Furthermore, education emerges as a particularly critical factor, as it not only influences health knowledge and behaviors but also shapes employment opportunities and income levels.

1.2 Social Support and Community Networks

The strength of social connections and community networks plays a fundamental role in shaping an individual’s health and well-being. Engaging in supportive relationships can buffer the negative effects of stress and foster resilience in the face of health challenges. Conversely, social isolation and lack of community cohesion have been linked to adverse health outcomes, including mental health disorders and compromised immune functioning.

The Influence of Social Determinants on Health
2.1 Mental Health

Mental health, an integral component of overall well-being, is significantly impacted by social determinants. Economic hardships, discrimination, and adverse childhood experiences are just a few examples of social factors that can contribute to the development of mental health disorders. Additionally, access to mental health services varies across different socioeconomic strata, underscoring the necessity of addressing SDH disparities to improve mental health outcomes.

2.2 Chronic Disease Burden

Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, are strongly influenced by SDH. Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations face heightened risk factors, such as poor nutrition, limited physical activity opportunities, and suboptimal access to healthcare. Addressing these disparities through targeted interventions can substantially reduce the burden of chronic diseases in vulnerable communities.

Policy Implications and Interventions
3.1 Equitable Health Policies

Understanding the impact of social determinants on health underscores the need for equitable health policies. Policymakers must recognize that health outcomes are shaped by factors beyond individual behaviors and genetics. Implementing policies that address income inequality, provide access to quality education, and promote social cohesion are essential steps toward mitigating health disparities and improving overall population health.

3.2 Multisectoral Collaboration

Given the multidimensional nature of SDH, effective interventions require collaboration across various sectors, including healthcare, education, housing, and employment. Engaging diverse stakeholders and fostering partnerships can facilitate a comprehensive approach to tackling health inequalities at their roots.

Conclusion

The social determinants of health serve as a lens through which we can better understand the complex interplay between society and well-being. Acknowledging the profound influence of socioeconomic factors, social support systems, and community networks on health outcomes is vital for formulating evidence-based policies that foster equitable and sustainable improvements in public health. By addressing SDH disparities and promoting multisectoral collaboration, we can pave the way for a healthier and more prosperous future for all.

References:

Marmot, M. (2016). The health gap: The challenge of an unequal world. Bloomsbury Publishing.

Berkman, L. F., & Kawachi, I. (Eds.). (2018). Social epidemiology. Oxford University Press.

Braveman, P., & Gottlieb, L. (2014). The social determinants of health: it’s time to consider the causes of the causes. Public Health Reports, 129(Suppl 2), 19-31.

Whitehead, M., & Dahlgren, G. (2016). Concepts and principles for tackling social inequities in health: Levelling up part 1. World Health Organization Europe.
RESOURCES
McGonigle, D., & Mastrian, K. G. (2022). Nursing informatics and the foundation of knowledge (5th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.
Chapter 14, “The Electronic Health Record and Clinical Informatics” (pp. 293–316)
Chapter 15, “Informatics Tools to Promote Patient Safety, Quality Outcomes, and Interdisciplinary Collaboration” (pp. 323–349)
Chapter 16, “Patient Engagement and Connected Health” (pp. 357–378)
Chapter 17, “Using Informatics to Promote Community/Population Health” (pp. 383–397)
Chapter 18, “Telenursing and Remote Access Telehealth” (pp. 403–432)
Benda, N. C., Veinot, T. C., Sieck, C. J., & Ancker, J. S. (2020). Broadband internet access is a social determinant of health!Links to an external site.. American Journal of Public Health, 110(8), 1123-1125. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2020.305784
Dykes, P. C., Rozenblum, R., Dalal, A., Massaro, A., Chang, F., Clements, M., Collins, S. …Bates, D. W. (2017). Prospective Assessment of a multifaceted intervention to improve outcomes in intensive care: The Promoting Respect and Ongoing Safety Through Patient Engagement Communication and Technology Study Download Prospective Assessment of a multifaceted intervention to improve outcomes in intensive care: The Promoting Respect and Ongoing Safety Through Patient Engagement Communication and Technology Study. Critical Care Medicine, 45(8), e806–e813. doi:10.1097/CCM.0000000000002449
HealthIT.gov. (2018c). What is an electronic health record (EHR)?Links to an external site. Retrieved from
https://www.healthit.gov/faq/what-electronic-healt…
Rao-Gupta, S., Kruger, D. Leak, L. D., Tieman, L. A., & Manworren, R. C. B. (2018). Leveraging interactive patient care technology to Improve pain management engagementLinks to an external site.. Pain Management Nursing, 19(3), 212–221.
Sieck, C. J., Sheon, A., Ancker, J. S., Castek, J., Callahan, B., & Siefer, A. (2021). Digital inclusion as a social determinant of healthLinks to an external site.. NPJ Digital Medicine, 4(1), 52.  https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-021-00413-8
Skiba, D. (2017). Assessment tools to appraise social media and mobile applicationsLinks to an external site.. Informatics, 4(3), 32–40.
Sharma, P., & Patten, C. A. (2022). A need for digitally inclusive health care service in the United States: Recommendations for clinicians and health care systemsLinks to an external site.. Permanente Journal, 26(3). https://doi.org/10.7812/TPP/21.156
To Prepare:

Reflect on the concept of social determinants of health as presented in the resources.
Contemplate whether digital inclusion or broad band access should be added to the 5 key areas of social determinants of health.
Using the optional outside resources or other peer reviewed journal articles, consider how electronic health records, mobile health, patient portals, or telemedicine can impact and be impacted by the social determinants of health.
Post a description of your views on whether or not digital inclusion or broad band access should be added as a key area to the social determinants of health. Be specific and provide examples that support your position. Explain how electronic health records, mobile health, patient portals, or telemedicine can impact and be impacted by the social determinants of health. Support your explanation with the required or optional resources.

Discussion_Rubric

Criteria

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeMain Posting

Ans.

Answers all parts of the discussion question(s) expectations with reflective critical analysis and synthesis of knowledge gained from the course readings for the module and current credible sources. … Supported by at least three current, credible sources. … Written clearly and concisely with no grammatical or spelling errors and fully adheres to current APA manual writing rules and style.

Order | Check Discount

Tags: I need help writing my homework, SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and their Impact on the Family