SDOH and Technology: A Powerful Duo Transforming the US Healthcare System

In the evolving landscape of healthcare, the recognition of social determinants of health (SDOH) has emerged as a crucial factor in improving health outcomes. SDOH encompasses the nonmedical elements that significantly impact an individual's well-being. As technology continues to advance, it plays a pivotal role in addressing SDOH-related challenges in the US healthcare system.

SDOH: Key Factors Shaping Health Outcomes

SDOH encompasses various domains, including economic stability, education access, and quality, healthcare access and quality, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context. These factors, such as safe housing, transportation, air and water quality, job opportunities, and systemic discrimination, significantly influence individuals' health. Studies have shown that SDOH accounts for a substantial 84 percent of health outcomes, with medical factors contributing only 16 percent. Understanding and addressing SDOH is vital for achieving improved healthcare outcomes and equity.

Leveraging Technology for Data Collection and Analysis

Technology plays a pivotal role in collecting and analyzing SDOH data, enabling healthcare organizations to identify and address inequities effectively. Standardizing SDOH data collection across the organization is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of disparities. By implementing standardized data collection methods, such as the use of International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes for documenting SDOH needs, organizations can establish a solid foundation for assessing social determinants. Additionally, leveraging analytics tools and combining internal and external data sources can provide a more complete picture of socioeconomic barriers and their impact on care quality.

Promoting Equitable Care Delivery

Data alone is not enough to drive change; it needs to be presented and utilized intentionally. The "five rights" of data'”providing the right information for the right person at the right time in the right way for the right reason'”become essential in the context of SDOH. Clinicians should have access to accurate and reliable analytics seamlessly integrated into their workflow. This enables informed decision-making, leading to improved patient outcomes. At the administrative level, SDOH insights can be integrated into business intelligence tools, guiding strategic decisions and addressing disparities at a population level.

Advancing Health Equity through SDOH and Technology

The integration of SDOH and technology holds tremendous potential to advance health equity in the US healthcare system. By addressing social determinants, healthcare organizations can deliver more patient-centered care, reduce disparities, and improve health outcomes for underserved communities. The combination of standardized data collection, advanced analytics, and actionable insights allows for a comprehensive understanding of SDOH and empowers healthcare providers to intervene effectively