At Boston Medical Center (BMC) our goal is not only to treat disease, but to understand and address its root causes. Research has shown that health is shaped by more than just quality healthcare, but also by social and environmental factors known collectively as the social determinants of health (SDOH). We know that for many, the root causes of medical issues are a lack of employment, income, stable housing or food, and limited education. These challenges can contribute to chronic disease and mental health issues and create barriers to accessing healthcare.
Healthcare providers must address SDOH on both a systemic and individual level. Improving health outcomes for our patients requires addressing structural barriers to good health and increasing equitable access to education and employment, food and nutrition, stable housing, and economic opportunity. To help build better, lasting health for patients and communities, BMC is dedicated to addressing the root causes of poor health so that everyone has an opportunity to thrive.
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Latest from HealthCity
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"None of the future innovations will happen without you by our side," said keynote speaker Dr. Bisola Ojikutu about addiction interventions.
There Are More Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Options Than Ever—Which Creates a New Obstacle
BMC providers speak on how they help their patients weigh their social needs, MS status, and more to choose among several MS treatment options.
In Its Second Year, BMCHS' Health Equity Accelerator Sees Racial Gaps Closing for Pregnancy and Diabetes
The initiative will begin to tackle gaps in cancer screenings in 2024.
Neighborhood Birth Center Plans Move Forward in Roxbury
Nubian Square birthing center will offer a home-like setting with comprehensive care and programming
How Do We Make Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Treatment More Equitable?
A new Alzheimer’s treatment is a boon for those recently diagnosed, but for access to be equitable, BMC experts say to start diagnosing earlier.
"I Believe BMC Is Rewriting the Script of How You Do Healthcare And Community."
One of BMC's strongest community partners, Rev. Willie Bodrick, speaks about wellness, equity, and the power of hospital-community collaborations.
Prioritizing Mental Health and Trauma Supports in Schools
One public school teacher talks with a BMC psychiatrist on how to support kids struggling with chronic absenteeism and mental health issues.
Boston Medical Center Shows Expanded Home Dialysis Fosters Equity in Kidney Disease
BMC's program busts myths that dialysis can only be done in large homes—20% of patients are on home dialysis—higher than the national average of 13%.
Boston Medical Center Health System’s New Pilot Program Will Allow Doctors to Prescribe Energy Bill Credits for Patients
First-in-the-nation Clean Power Prescription pilot builds on the health systems' sustainability practices and its commitment to community investments.
Integrating Culturally Competent Mental Health Care Leads to Better Diabetes Outcomes
A new initiative by Boston Medical Center's Health Equity Accelerator shows promise in reducing A1C among patients of color living with diabetes.
Addressing Social Determinants of Health Is Critical In Curbing Opioid Overdose Deaths, Study Finds
New research from BMC shows a 21% reduction in overdose deaths in communities that address social needs as a part of post-overdose outreach programs.
What Is Harm Reduction?
An expert and advocate for harm reduction talks about how she meets patients where they are with treatment options, resources, and hope for tomorrow.