Review of strategies to address social determinants of health and health disparities to improve health outcomes

Abstract

Medical care accounts for only 10% of health outcomes. All other contributions to health outcomes are attributed to genetics, environment, social circumstances, and behaviors. These categories are known as the social determinants of health (SDOH). The social determinants of health can cause health inequities and disparities among a population. As a result of health disparities related to social determinants of health, an increased proportion of the population develops chronic medical conditions that consume more health care expenditures. It is becoming increasingly more important to address the underlying factors of health outcomes as the reimbursement for quality of care becomes the norm in healthcare. Effectively integrating new programs, technology, and community partnerships that target the vulnerable populations into a healthcare organization can prove to be beneficial in improving health outcomes and lowering healthcare costs.

Keywords

• social determinants
• population health
• community partnerships
• return on investment