What is the impact of social determinants of health on case management?

Social determinants of health are a range of factors that influence an individual's health status and access to healthcare. These can include socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood and physical environment, employment, social support networks, and access to healthcare. When it comes to case management, understanding these determinants is crucial because they significantly affect a patient's ability to engage with the healthcare system and achieve favorable health outcomes.

By recognizing the impact of these factors, case managers can better support their clients by addressing barriers to care. For instance, if a patient lives in a neighborhood with limited access to healthcare facilities or lacks transportation, a case manager can work to identify solutions that facilitate access. Similarly, a patient's financial situation may lead to difficulties affording medications or following treatment plans, thus requiring tailored strategies to manage care effectively.

Incorporating knowledge of social determinants into case management allows for a more holistic approach to patient care. It increases the likelihood of achieving better health outcomes by ensuring that both clinical and non-clinical needs are met, ultimately leading to improved overall quality of life for patients.