Social determinants of health could be interrelated and could be the reason for unhealthy or risky health behaviors and attributes that lead to negative outcomes. Public health officials must constantly look for ways in which they can eliminate some of these problems in society.
For the Unit VII Case Study, you will take on the role of a public health leader in your community and develop a plan for other officials that addresses the following.
1) Describe a social determinant of health in your community that has produced health risks and outcomes.
2) Based on your research, what do you see as the biggest issue facing your community?
3) Describe how the community is presently tackling the problem through the local public health department.
4) Propose a resolution for the health risk and outcome caused by the social determinants.
5) Explain how these unhealthy behaviors and attributes could be reduced or eradicated in the society.
6) How would you reduce medical costs in your community?
7) Explain how the government can implement your plan into law for the common good.
Full Answer Section
Description of Poverty in My Community
Poverty is a widespread problem in my community. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the poverty rate in my community is 20%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 11.4%. This means that one in five people in my community lives below the poverty line.
Poverty is concentrated in certain neighborhoods in my community. These neighborhoods are often characterized by high levels of unemployment, crime, and environmental hazards. Residents of these neighborhoods are more likely to experience health problems than residents of wealthier neighborhoods.
Health Risks and Outcomes Associated with Poverty
Poverty is associated with a wide range of health problems. Some of the most common health problems associated with poverty include:
- Chronic diseases: Poverty is a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
- Mental health issues: People living in poverty are more likely to experience mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
- Unintentional injuries: Poverty is also a risk factor for unintentional injuries, such as falls, motor vehicle accidents, and poisoning.
In addition to these specific health problems, poverty can also have a general negative impact on health. People living in poverty are more likely to have poor nutrition, lack access to healthcare, and experience stress and anxiety. These factors can all contribute to poor overall health.
Plan to Address Poverty in My Community
As a public health leader in my community, I have developed a plan to address poverty and its associated health risks and outcomes. My plan includes the following key components:
- Increasing access to affordable housing: Access to affordable housing is a critical need in my community. I will work to increase the availability of affordable housing options and provide rental assistance to low-income residents.
- Expanding access to healthy food: Healthy food is often expensive and difficult to access in low-income neighborhoods. I will work to expand access to healthy food options by supporting local farmers' markets and grocery stores in low-income neighborhoods.
- Improving access to healthcare: Access to healthcare is another critical need in my community. I will work to expand access to affordable healthcare options and provide health education to low-income residents.
- Promoting job training and education: Job training and education can help people escape poverty and improve their health. I will work to expand access to job training and education programs in my community.
- Addressing social stigma: Poverty is often associated with social stigma. I will work to raise awareness of the causes and consequences of poverty and promote understanding and compassion for people living in poverty.
Conclusion
Poverty is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, I believe that the plan I have outlined can make a significant difference in the lives of people living in poverty in my community. By addressing the root causes of poverty and its associated health risks and outcomes, we can create a healthier and more equitable society for all.
Sample Answer
Introduction
Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life. These forces and systems include economic policies and systems, development agendas, social norms, social policies, racism, climate change, and political systems. SDOH have a major impact on people's health, well-being, and quality of life.
In my community, a significant SDOH that contributes to health risks and outcomes is poverty. Poverty is a complex issue with a wide range of causes and consequences. It can lead to poor housing, lack of access to healthy food and healthcare, and increased stress and anxiety. These factors, in turn, can lead to a variety of health problems, including chronic diseases, mental health issues, and unintentional injuries.