Overview of Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people live, work, learn, and play that affect their health. Factors include socioeconomic status (e.g., education, income, poverty), housing, transportation, social norms and attitudes (e.g., racism and discrimination), crime and violence, literacy, and availability of resources (e.g., food, health care).

These conditions influence an individual’s health and define quality of life for many segments of the population. Those that are most vulnerable are children and the elderly. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, social factors like education, racism, and poverty regularly account for over a third of total deaths in the United States.

Healthcare systems across the country have recognized the impact of social determinants of health on their patients and communities, and are implementing strategies to address them.

Locally, Mid Coast Hospital has identified social determinants as a priority in our 2019-2022 Community Health Improvement Plan. Initiatives include:

• Mid Coast Medical Group primary care offices are piloting a screening tool that identifies food insecurity, provides emergency food, and connects patients to local resources such as benefits, food pantries, and soup kitchens.
• Hospital staff serve on and support several community committees to increase housing accessibility and transportation access.
• Mid Coast Hospital continues to provide free care to any patient at 200% of the poverty level, above the required 150% threshold.

In addition, we continue to work with our partners within the MaineHealth system to identify best practice opportunities to identify and help patients and communities overcome social determinant barriers to health.