Doctors in Training Step 2: Addressing Social Determinants of Health

In recent years, the medical community has come to recognize that the social determinants of health play a significant role in determining an individual's overall well-being. As such, it is essential for physicians-in-training to develop a deeper understanding of these factors and how they impact patient care.

One of the key principles of promoting more equitable health outcomes is to train healthcare professionals to address the social determinants of health. This includes recognizing that poverty, lack of education, and other socioeconomic factors can have a profound impact on an individual's health.

Unfortunately, many physicians and healthcare providers avoid discussing these issues with their patients, instead focusing on medical treatment and lifestyle counseling. However, this approach often falls short in addressing the complex and intertwined health and social challenges faced by many patients.

Physicians-in-training must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address these underlying causes of poor health. This requires a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health and their impact on patient outcomes.

For example, research has consistently shown that individuals who are poor and less educated tend to experience more health problems and have shorter lifespans compared to those who are richer and more educated. These disparities exist even in wealthy countries like Canada, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of the social determinants of health.

By incorporating an emphasis on addressing social determinants of health into their training programs, doctors-in-training can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide more patient-centered care and promote greater health equity.

In conclusion, the medical community must prioritize the social determinants of health in order to improve population health and reduce disparities. By doing so, physicians-in-training will be equipped with the tools necessary to provide high-quality, patient-centered care that addresses the complex needs of their patients.

Doctors in training step 2 2014 pdf