Advances in Medical Ethics
Open Access

The Service of Social Determinants on Healthcare Disparities

Winston Liaw^{* *}Correspondence: Winston Liaw, Department of Public Health, University of Houston, Houston, USA, Email:

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Description

Healthcare disparities, often defined as differences in access to healthcare services and health outcomes among different populations, persist across the globe. While medical care is important, it's just one piece of the puzzle. The broader social, economic, and environmental factors, known as Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), play a significant role in shaping health outcomes and causing healthcare disparities.

Social determinants of health

Income, education, and occupation significantly impact access to healthcare services, health behaviors, and health outcomes. Individuals with higher socioeconomic status generally have better access to healthcare, resources for healthy living, and social support networks. Neighborhood conditions, such as access to safe housing, clean water, nutritious food, and recreational spaces, can influence health behaviors, exposure to environmental hazards, and overall health outcomes. Strong social support networks, including family, friends, and community organizations, can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and access to resources that promote health and well-being.

Health behaviors, such as smoking, diet, exercise, and substance use, are influenced by social norms, peer pressure, and environmental factors. Individuals living in environments that promote healthy behaviors are more likely to engage in positive health practices. Healthcare access, including availability, affordability, and quality of healthcare services, is a critical determinant of health outcomes.

Impact of social determinants

Social determinants of health play a significant role in shaping healthcare disparities through various mechanisms.

Access to healthcare services: Socioeconomic factors, such as income and education, influence individuals' ability to access healthcare services. Individuals with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to face barriers to healthcare access, including lack of health insurance, transportation, and affordable healthcare options.

Healthcare utilization and quality: Socioeconomic disparities contribute to differences in healthcare utilization and quality of care. Individuals with lower socioeconomic status are less likely to seek preventive care, receive timely screenings, and adhere to treatment plans, leading to poorer health outcomes and higher rates of preventable hospitalizations and complications.

Health behaviors and risk factors: Social determinants influence health behaviors and risk factors, such as smoking, diet, exercise, and substance use, which contribute to the development of chronic diseases and other health conditions. Individuals living in disadvantaged communities are more likely to be exposed to environmental hazards, have limited access to nutritious food and recreational opportunities, and engage in unhealthy behaviors.

Addressing healthcare disparities

Addressing healthcare disparities requires a comprehensive approach that addresses social determinants of health and promotes health equity.

Policy interventions: Implementing policies that address social determinants of health, such as poverty, education, housing, and employment, can reduce disparities and improve health outcomes. Examples include increasing access to affordable housing, expanding educational opportunities, and implementing living wage policies.

Healthcare system reforms: Healthcare system reforms, including expanding access to affordable healthcare coverage, improving cultural competency in healthcare delivery, and implementing patient-centered care models, can reduce disparities and improve healthcare access and quality for marginalized populations.

Research and data collection: Investing in research and data collection efforts to better understand the root causes of healthcare disparities and track progress in reducing disparities is essential for informing evidence-based interventions and policies.

Conclusion

Healthcare disparities are complex and multifaceted, rooted in social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health outcomes and access to care. Addressing healthcare disparities requires a holistic approach that addresses social determinants of health, promotes health equity, and engages stakeholders across sectors.