Create a Profile Using the Social Determinants of Health
Part 1: Create a Basic Population Profile
Using the WHO classifications of the seven social determinants of health, create a basic profile for a population. To begin, define your population by race, ethnicity, age, and geographic location (e.g., Hispanic between the ages of 25-74 living in Columbus, Ohio, or just Ohio). Further, identify this population by each of the seven social determinants of health. A few descriptive guidelines (with examples) are provided to assist you in this identification process.
- An education level (less than high school, high school, college, graduate school)
- Income level (low, middle, high)
- Physical environment (rural, urban, suburban)
- Social support network (family, single parent, friends)
- Genetics (does ethnicity or race affect your population)
- Health Services (access to both medical and preventive health services)
- Gender (male, female, other
Once this first step of creating a population profile is completed, consider the following and defend your response:
• Identify the social determinant that has the most negative impact on your population’s health and the social determinant that has the most positive impact on your population’s health.
• What action or actions would you take to improve the social determinant that has the most negative impact?
This is an excellent opportunity for you to initiate the use of innovative thinking through descriptive analysis.
Part 2: Discussion Question
Respond to the following discussion question from Jonas and Kovner’s Health Care Delivery in the United States:
The Commission to Build a Healthier America found that non-Hispanic Whites were more likely to be in very good or excellent health than were other groups nationally and in almost every state. In addition, non-Hispanic Whites had better health status than adults in any other racial or ethnic group at every level of education, but all groups showed a gradient in health by educational level. What are some of the determinants that are likely contributing to this disparity in health between non-Hispanic Whites and other groups after controlling for different educational levels? (Knickman & Kovner, 2015, p. 120)
Full Answer Section
- Health Services: Access to both medical and preventive health services is moderate. There are a variety of healthcare providers and facilities available, but language barriers and cost may be obstacles for some individuals.
- Gender: Female: 55%, Male: 45%
Most Negative Impact:
The
education level has the most negative impact on the health of this population. Individuals with lower education levels are more likely to have lower incomes, limited access to healthcare, and higher rates of chronic diseases.
Most Positive Impact:
Social support networks have a positive impact on the health of this population. Strong social connections can provide emotional support, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
Actions to Improve Education Level:
- Increase access to education: Expand opportunities for adult education and vocational training.
- Provide financial assistance: Offer scholarships and grants to help individuals continue their education.
- Partner with schools and community organizations: Collaborate with schools and community-based organizations to provide educational resources and support.
Part 2: Discussion Question
The disparity in health between non-Hispanic Whites and other racial and ethnic groups, even after controlling for educational level, is likely due to a complex interplay of social determinants of health. Some potential contributing factors include:
- Socioeconomic Disadvantage: Individuals from marginalized racial and ethnic groups are more likely to face socioeconomic disadvantages, such as poverty, unemployment, and housing insecurity. These factors can have a significant impact on health outcomes.
- Systemic Racism: Systemic racism and discrimination can limit access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, leading to health disparities.
- Cultural Factors: Cultural beliefs and practices may influence health behaviors and access to care.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants can disproportionately affect certain racial and ethnic groups.
- Implicit Bias: Implicit bias among healthcare providers can lead to disparities in treatment and outcomes.
Addressing these underlying social determinants of health is essential for reducing health disparities and promoting health equity. This requires a multi-sectoral approach that involves collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, community organizations, and individuals.