1. Identify and briefly define one domain of the SODH
2. Describe how the selected domain impacts health outcomes in your community.
3. Identify two strategies related to the selected domain to improve health outcomes in your community.
Social Determinants of Health: The Role of Economic Stability
-
Identifying and Defining a Domain of the SDOH
One key domain of the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) is Economic Stability. Economic stability refers to an individual’s or community’s ability to access sufficient financial resources to meet basic needs such as housing, food, healthcare, and education. This domain encompasses factors like employment, income level, cost of living, and access to social services. When individuals lack economic stability, their ability to maintain good health is significantly compromised. -
Impact of Economic Stability on Health Outcomes in My Community
In my community, economic instability is a major challenge affecting health outcomes. Many families live below the poverty line, and unemployment rates are high. As a result, people often delay seeking medical care due to cost concerns or lack of health insurance. Poor economic conditions also contribute to food insecurity, forcing many to rely on low-cost, unhealthy food options, which increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Furthermore, individuals facing financial hardship often experience higher levels of stress and mental health issues, which can further deteriorate overall health. Economic stability is, therefore, directly linked to both physical and mental well-being in the community. -
Strategies to Improve Health Outcomes through Economic Stability
Two effective strategies to address economic stability in order to improve health outcomes include:-
Job Training and Workforce Development Programs: Offering job training, apprenticeship opportunities, and skill-building programs can help community members secure stable employment. These initiatives can especially benefit young adults and those who have been unemployed long-term. By increasing access to well-paying jobs, individuals are better able to afford healthcare and improve their overall living conditions.
-
Expanding Access to Affordable Childcare and Transportation: For many low-income families, lack of access to affordable childcare and reliable transportation are barriers to employment. Community-based programs that provide subsidized childcare and improve public transportation systems can reduce these obstacles, enabling more people to enter and remain in the workforce, thereby enhancing economic stability and health outcomes.
-