Addressing Health Disparities: A Nursing Perspective on the Social Determinants of Health

Amelia Roses (UNC20215678) Bachelor of Science in Nursing ASSIGNMENT SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH 1. Briefly explain what the term "Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)" refers to. Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are the social and economic conditions that shape the environment in which people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age. These conditions significantly impact individual and community health outcomes. 2. List and provide examples of some key SDOH factors that impact individual and community health. a. Income and social protection: Low income, lack of social security, and financial instability can limit access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe housing, leading to increased risk of chronic diseases, mental health issues, and infectious diseases. b. Education: Limited access to quality education can restrict opportunities for employment, healthy living, and health literacy, leading to poorer health outcomes. c. Housing: Unsafe, overcrowded, or inadequate housing can contribute to respiratory illnesses, mental health issues, and the spread of infectious diseases. d. Food insecurity: Lack of access to nutritious food can lead to malnutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases. e. Healthcare access: Limited access to quality healthcare services can lead to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poorer health outcomes. f. Social support: Strong social connections and networks can provide emotional support, resources, and a sense of belonging, contributing to better mental and physical health. 3. How can SDOH influence a person's health status? SDOH can influence a person's health status in several ways: a. Directly: For example, low income may limit access to healthy food, leading to malnutrition. b. Indirectly: SDOH factors can interact with each other and create a cycle of disadvantage. For example, poor housing may contribute to respiratory illnesses, which can then limit a person's ability to work or attend school, further impacting their income and overall health. 4. Discuss how healthcare professionals can play a role in addressing the negative impacts of SDOH on community health. Healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in addressing the negative impacts of SDOH on community health by: a. Screening for SDOH: Identifying patients' social and economic needs through questionnaires or conversations. b. Connecting patients to resources: Referring patients to social services, food banks, housing assistance programs, and other community resources. c. Advocating for policy change: Supporting policies that address SDOH, such as increasing access to affordable housing, improving food security, and expanding healthcare access. d. Educating patients and communities: Providing information about SDOH and how they impact health, empowering individuals and communities to make healthy choices and advocate for change. 5. In your opinion, what are some strategies that could be implemented to reduce health disparities caused by SDOH? a. Investing in early childhood development: Providing high-quality education and support systems for children from disadvantaged backgrounds can improve their long-term health outcomes. b. Addressing income inequality: Policies that promote fair wages, access to affordable housing, and social safety nets can reduce the negative health impacts of poverty. c. Improving access to healthcare: Expanding health insurance coverage, reducing healthcare costs, and addressing geographic disparities in healthcare access can improve health outcomes for all. d. Promoting healthy communities: Investing in safe and affordable housing, healthy food initiatives, and community-based programs that promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles can create healthier environments for everyone.