Understanding social determinants in our region
Economic stability
Financial health remains a primary factor in care access. For many families, the choice between medical care and immediate needs is a daily reality.
- • Opportunity costs of lack of paid leave
- • Insurance gaps and rising deductibles
Neighborhood and infrastructure
The landscapes of our rural and urban areas dictate logistics. Reliable transit and digital connectivity are essential to healthcare reach.
- • Travel distances in healthcare deserts
- • The digital divide in telehealth services
Education and health literacy
Clarity in medical communication is a bridge to trust. We focus on making health information approachable and grounded in local contexts.
- • Simplifying insurance and clinical jargon
- • Language support for diverse communities
Community and social context
Trust is built through respectful engagement. Recognizing local histories helps us create more inclusive and effective systems.
- • Addressing systemic bias with empathy
- • Strengthening local caregiving networks
Impact of barriers on patient care
| Determinant | Barrier type | Community impact |
|---|---|---|
| Poverty | Financial | Difficult choices between nutrition and medication. |
| Geography | Logistical | Long travel times for specialized consultations. |
| Health Literacy | Cognitive | Challenges in following recovery protocols. |