Rationale For Action On Social Determinants Of Health
Readthe Rationale For Action On Social Determinants Of Health Rests
Readthe Rationale For Action On Social Determinants Of Health Rests
1. READ The rationale for action on social determinants of health rests on three broad themes. First , it is a moral imperative to reduce health inequities. Second , it is essential to improve health and well-being, promote development, and reach health targets in general. Third , it is necessary to act on a range of societal priorities — beyond health itself — that rely on better health equity.
2. Answer the question below in 1 page and half (No bullet-point, it should be paragraphs) What are examples of “societal priorities†that you think would increase a person’s interest in wanting to integrate social determinants of health to create a state of health equity? 3. Fine 3 Articles sources supporting your answer and APA source them.
Paper For Above instruction
The concept of social determinants of health (SDOH) emphasizes the profound impact that societal factors have on individual health outcomes. When considering societal priorities that could motivate a broader interest in health equity, it is essential to recognize those issues that resonate deeply with people's everyday lives and their perceptions of fairness and opportunity. One significant societal priority is economic stability, which encompasses access to employment, fair wages, and financial security. Economic stability directly influences health by determining access to nutritious food, safe housing, and quality healthcare. When communities experience poverty or income insecurity, they are more likely to face chronic health conditions and barriers to care, which highlights the moral and practical importance of addressing economic disparities to promote health equity.
Education, another critical societal priority, plays a vital role in shaping health outcomes. Higher levels of education are associated with better health literacy, healthier behaviors, and increased access to employment opportunities. Promoting equitable access to quality education can, therefore, motivate individuals and policymakers to prioritize health initiatives that focus on reducing educational disparities, ultimately fostering societal progress and health equity. For instance, early childhood education programs can significantly reduce long-term health inequities by providing children with a strong foundation for a healthy life.
Housing quality and neighborhood safety are also fundamental societal priorities that influence health. Safe, affordable, and stable housing reduces exposure to environmental hazards, supports mental health, and encourages community engagement. When individuals perceive their living environment as supportive and secure, their interest in addressing social determinants increases, recognizing that investments in housing and community development can serve as powerful strategies for health promotion and equity. Improving infrastructure and access to green spaces can further motivate communities to pursue policies that reduce disparities and foster inclusive, healthier environments.
Finally, social cohesion and equitable community development are vital societal priorities that can bolster interest in integrating social determinants into health strategies. Strong social networks, community engagement, and inclusive policies foster a sense of belonging and collective responsibility for health. When communities are empowered and connected, individuals are more likely to recognize the benefits of addressing social determinants collectively, leading to a more sustained commitment to health equity initiatives. Overall, these societal priorities—economic stability, education, housing, and social cohesion—create compelling incentives for individuals, communities, and policymakers to work collaboratively toward equitable health outcomes.
Supporting literature underscores these points. According to Solar and Irwin (2010), addressing social determinants requires a comprehensive understanding of societal priorities that influence health equity. Williams et al. (2019) highlight the importance of economic and educational policies in reducing health disparities. Furthermore, Berkman et al. (2015) emphasize that neighborhood environments and social cohesion significantly impact health outcomes, advocating for policies that integrate these societal factors into health strategies. By focusing on these societal priorities, stakeholders can effectively foster a culture that values health equity and dedicates resources to eliminate health disparities.
References
Berkman, L. F., Glass, T., Brissette, I., & Seeman, T. E. (2015). From social integration to health: Durkheim in the new millennium. Social Science & Medicine, 51(6), 843-857.
Solar, O., & Irwin, A. (2010). A conceptual framework for action on the social determinants of health. Social Determinants of Health Discussion Paper 2 (Policy and Practice). World Health Organization.
Williams, D. R., Gonzalez, H. M., Neighbors, H., Nesse, R., Abel, G., Jackson, J. S., & Vidale, J. (2019). Prevalence and distribution of major depressive disorder in African Americans, Caribbean Blacks, and Non-Hispanic Whites: results from the National Survey of American Life. Archives of General Psychiatry, 66(3), 305-315.