Social Determinants of Health
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.
Learn more
Latest from HealthCity
A Free App Breaks Barriers to Prescribing Medication for OUD
With the removal of the X-waiver, more doctors and nurses can prescribe buprenorphine to patients with addiction. This BMC tool can help.
Haitian Migrants Face Unique Challenges Finding U.S. Housing
Haitian people continue to be displaced by natural and geopolitical forces, creating a perfect storm of people turning to U.S. ERs seeking shelter.
What is Antipoverty Medicine?
Addressing poverty is not only a compelling financial decision for health systems, but a moral and ethical one.
Teen Parents Have a Unique Set of Needs; This Program Aims to Meet Them
"Teen and Tot was serving a population that needed somebody whose aim was not to keep them down but rather to push them forward."
Community-Driven Food Systems Are Key in Tackling Food Insecurity
Communities have long had the answers to feeding themselves. It's time for anchor institutions to listen and bolster their home-grown efforts.
Innovative Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring Program Significantly Drops Rate of Severe Hypertension Postpartum
With glaring racial disparities in maternal mortality, a program that could begin to bridge gaps in postpartum care was desperately needed.
Men Are More Likely to Die by Suicide, but Less Likely To Have Depression Diagnosis
Socialization, gender roles, race, and the way we screen for depression play a critical role in who receives adequate care for mental health issues.
Clean Socks Are Simple Way to Reach Patients Experiencing Homelessness
Upstream healthcare solutions are critical, but this essential need offers preventative treatment and relationship-building crucial to patient care.
U.S. Formula Shortage Exposes Deep-Rooted Injustices Across Industries
The infant formula shortage has impacted all babies who need it, but families who access WIC programs bear the brunt.
Can New Medication Formulations for Opioid Addiction Prevent Relapse in New Parents?
Opioid use has quadrupled in pregnancy, but effective medication options remain elusive for pregnant and breastfeeding persons.
BMC Aims to Offer Costly, One-Time Cancer Therapy To All
CAR T, a personalized cell therapy, has been a game-changer for certain blood cancers, but its high cost has been a huge barrier to equitable access.
One Addiction Counselor's Life Mission to Assist Others in Recovery
A licensed alcohol and drug counselor explores how her own experience in recovery helps her as she walks alongside others on a similar path.
