Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the “conditions in the environment where people are born, live and learn.” The SDOH impact child physical health, growth, development, and mental health. These effects can have life-long implications. However, medical students can intervene and identify these SDOH by learning about the various screens and how to implement the screening. Medical students can address various social determinants of health through referring and connecting with community partners. It is also important to recognize the ethical impact of SDOH screening on the patient, caregiver, and provider. Adverse Childhood Events (ACEs) can have a deleterious effect on a child’s life. Medical students can screen and recognize the roles ACEs play in the health of their patients. While this work can be done on an individual level, medical students can play a key role in improving health policy and impacting population health through advocacy.