Description
Creation of the Congressional Social Determinants of Health Caucus is an example of the intersection of policy and politics. This caucus has been created to look for opportunities to improve how government services and programs, widely spread over many different departments, address the SDOH most likely through policy changes. By maximizing federal investments, the caucus will look to improve health outcomes, in particular outcomes affected directly by SDOH. The Caucus appears to focus primarily on three areas – housing, food, and transportation and the government departments with responsibility for those areas. We know that SDOH are not primarily the result of these three areas. Knowing what you know about other social determinants of health (income, education, employment, etc), prepare a 2 page critique of what appears to be the Caucus’ mission and share the other social determinants you believe should be included and the other government departments and agencies you think should be involved in the Caucus’ plans and why. Add a final page to your critique and, as a healthcare leader whose organization’s bottom line is affected by the impact of SDOH on health outcomes, express your thoughts on how you believe the financial impact of the SDOH should be financed.
