Impacts on Patients and Healthcare Workers in Canada, Research Paper Example

Introduction

SDOH refers to an individual’s health and finances. These include social and economic status, schooling, career prospects, housing, health care, and the physical and social environment. Low-income and minority communities tend to have higher illness rates because of social factors. Disparities in healthcare are real. These differences result from poverty, bigotry, and poor medical treatment. Health disparities are worse for the marginalized population.

The health and social lives of the low-income are the subject of this study. The study’s overarching goal is to pinpoint the socioeconomic factors that influence health in these regions so that better healthcare and fewer health disparities may be implemented. Identifying social and economic well-being characteristics and their consequences on underserved communities may influence healthcare policy and practice. This study might inform future efforts to promote health equity and related policies.

Literature Review

Overview of the social determinants of health:

Examples of “social determinants of health” (SDOH) that people cannot modify include living, working, and death conditions. These conditions are influenced by income, education, employment, housing, and community (WHO, 2022). One strong indicator of SDOH’s effect on health is the correlation between socioeconomic level and medical outcomes.

Analysis of how those who are marginalized are affected by social elements of wellness:

The effects of increasing socioeconomic determinants on health are felt most acutely by people of color and those with lower incomes. These neighborhoods often face economic and social issues like poverty, a lack of work and school chances, and bad living conditions (Healthy People 2030, 2022). These obstacles may reduce life expectancy, increase illness and mortality, and increase chronic disease rates. The lack of accessible, outstanding healthcare for special needs individuals is essential to their well-being and health. Due to financial limitations, those with limited opportunities could not access preventative treatment or critical interventions. Poorer circumstances, as well as medical inequalities, may result.

Examples of health disparities in marginalized communities:

Health disparities refer to differences in life expectancy or mortality rates between various population groupings. Due to social and economic difficulties, marginalized populations are more prone to health inequalities (Bella, 2021). Higher rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease among low-income communities, Higher infant mortality rates among minority populations, and Less access to healthy food options and safe places to exercise leading to higher rates of obesity and related health conditions are all examples of health disparities in marginalized communities. Mental health issues like sadness and anxiety are more common in low-income areas because of the added burden of not having easy access to good medical treatment.

In light of the enormity and breadth of its consequences, the consequences of social and economic variables on disease must not be ignored, particularly among those at greatest risk. To encourage equal access to healthcare and decrease differences in health, various financial aspects must be taken into account. By emphasizing financial factors that are suggestive of wellness in excluded regions, health care workers and policymakers could possibly be equipped to boost standard life for residents and reduce healthcare inequalities.

III. Methodology

Research design and methods:

In this investigation, the researchers took a cross-sectional approach. This research aims to determine which social and economic variables are most responsible for poor health in areas lacking services. A survey will be conducted on individuals living on the margins of society to gather information for the study. The research team plans to recruit individuals from various underrepresented groups spread out across the country. To guarantee that the sample is statistically valid and reflective of the population of underrepresented groups, it will be picked by chance.

Data collection and analysis:

Structured surveys will collect data. The poll will cover income, education, employment, housing, and healthcare. The survey will ask about chronic diseases, mental health, and overall health (Cherry, 2020). Trained interviewers will conduct face-to-face surveys with research participants. Participants will be interviewed in their preferred language for 30 minutes. Participants will learn the study’s purpose and rights. Responses are likewise confidential.

Participants’ demographics and survey responses will be summarized using descriptive statistics. The association involving economic and social variables and wellness consequences for those with disadvantages can be examined using the chi-square test and regression research (Cherry, 2020). The information will be analyzed and presented using statistical software. This information will be used to analyze how socioeconomic status correlates with health inequalities among underserved groups. As a result, the method used in this research will help to pinpoint economic conditions that impact the greatest influence on the physical well-being of people with limited resources. Data collected from under-represented groups can be trusted because of random sampling and well-designed survey technologies. We could better understand how socioeconomic factors impact the health of at-risk people by looking at descriptive and inferential data.

IV. Results

Overview of the study findings:

The study uncovered critical social determinants of health for underrepresented populations. The study’s sample represented people from all walks of life’s margins. Standardized survey instruments were utilized to collect data, which was then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Lakey et al., 2021). The research discovered that socioeconomic health variables such as income, schooling, job opportunities, and treatment affect disadvantaged communities’ medical conditions. Low-income populations have a greater prevalence of long-term illnesses, lower life expectancies, and higher mortality and morbidity rates

Description of the relationship between social determinants of health and health outcomes in marginalized communities:

The study indicated that income is a major socioeconomic factor of health in marginalized populations. Low-income people are most likely to suffer from chronic diseases, yet they have restricted access to healthcare, increasing the chances of emergency room hospitalizations. The study showed that low education and career possibilities might affect health outcomes in marginalized populations. Lack of education and work can lead to stress, worry, and mental health issues (Lakey et al., 2021). Lack of financial resources and employment prospects can limit nutritious diet and safe exercise access. Marginalized groups also suffered from poor healthcare access. Low healthcare availability can lead to chronic diseases and shorter lifespans. The health of underprivileged groups is disproportionately affected by social factors. Promoting health equity and eliminating inequities requires addressing these social and economic variables. These findings can help policymakers and healthcare professionals establish targeted treatments and policies to enhance health outcomes and eliminate health inequalities in marginalized groups.

V. Discussion

Interpretation of the findings:

This study’s findings support the theory that socioeconomic status is a primary determinant of health and well-being among socially disadvantaged populations. People living in areas of high poverty and with few resources have education, employment, and healthcare experience higher rates of chronic diseases, reduced life expectancy, and increased morbidity and mortality rates (Palmer et al., 2019). To improve health equality and eliminate health inequalities in underserved areas, it is crucial to address social and economic variables, as shown by these studies.

Implications of the research:

The study will have an impact on policymakers and healthcare professionals. The results presented highlight the significance of developing and executing policies and initiatives that especially target those with vulnerabilities and overall financial standing as factors affecting health. Education, employment, health care, and preventative measures are all areas that might benefit from policy and initiative improvements in these communities (Palmer et al., 2019). The findings also show that marginalized areas require more social programs and services to reduce poverty and promote economic possibilities.

Recommendations for interventions to improve health outcomes in marginalized communities:

The report suggests many ways to enhance healthcare in marginalized groups. First, authorities ought to concentrate on training and employment for underprivileged people. This includes subsidizing schools for low-income pupils, offering job education and professional growth, and encouraging entrepreneurship (Palmer et al., 2019). Similar initiatives and regulations should improve access to medical care in marginalized groups. Community health clinics, Medicaid expansion, and education and promotion of health programs can be funded.

Legislatures should also fund welfare initiatives to eliminate poverty and boost marginalized areas’ economies. Expanding food aid, affordable housing, and financial literacy, initiatives are examples. Additionally, healthcare professionals should focus on cultural competency training and sensitivity to underrepresented communities needs. Providers should cultivate trust and relationships with patients, especially those with unpleasant healthcare experiences.

In conclusion, socioeconomic determinants of health significantly affect health outcomes in marginalized groups. Health equity and inequities in these communities require addressing social and economic determinants. Policymakers and healthcare professionals should use the findings to establish targeted interventions and policies to enhance health outcomes and eliminate health inequalities in marginalized groups.

VI. Conclusion

Summary of the research findings:

The data of the current research provide credence to the notion that financial and social circumstances have an unfavorable effect on the bodily condition of people with limited resources. Higher rates of chronic diseases, shorter life expectancy, and higher morbidity and death rates are experienced by people in low-income communities with limited access to education, employment, and healthcare. Figures highlight how crucial it is to tackle financial and social variables in order to promote equitable medical care and reduce medical gaps amongst those who are less fortunate.

Limitations of the study:

It is pertinent to point out that the research includes multiple caveats. The first limitation was incorporating other data sources, particularly limiting the investigation’s capacity to account for all potential confounding factors. The research results may be more helpful to outsiders where the research was conducted. Ultimately, personal information, which may be biased or inaccurate, was used during the research.

Areas for future research:

The research has some flaws that need fixing before we can fully see the well-being of the less fortunate. Random sampling and carefully crafted survey tools allow data gathered from underrepresented groups to be trusted. Examining descriptive and inferential data could help us better understand how socioeconomic factors affect the health of at-risk people. Socially excluded groups should be investigated in future studies.

Socioeconomic factors of health interventions for low-income populations should be developed and tested in future studies. Examples are community-based initiatives to encourage healthy behaviors, legislative interventions to improve education and medical care, and poverty and economic inequality initiatives. Further study should develop and test strategies to alleviate the health effects of historical and systemic racism in marginalized groups. Institutional segregation, healthcare bias, and other structural issues that cause health inequalities could be addressed. Ultimately, their socioeconomic status profoundly impacts the health of underrepresented populations. To ensure that underserved communities have equal access to healthcare and fewer health disparities, more research must be done to examine this correlation and develop treatments that address social and economic factors.

References

Bella. (2021, July 15). Disparities in Medical Care: How Marginalized People Have Difficulty Accessing Equitable Health Care. Www.plannedparenthood.org. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/planned-parenthood-south-east-north-florida/blog/disparities-in-medical-care-how-marginalized-people-have-difficulty-accesses-equitable-health-care

Cherry, K. (2020, April 7). How Surveys Are Used in Psychology to Collect Data. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-survey-2795787

Healthy People 2030. (2022). Social determinants of health. Healthy People 2030; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://health.gov/healthypeople/priority-areas/social-determinants-health

Lakey, D., Marks, E., & Nehme, E. (2021). Finding Effective Ways To Address Social Determinants Of Health. Forefront Group. https://doi.org/10.1377/forefront.20210420.146637

Palmer, R. C., Ismond, D., Rodriquez, E. J., & Kaufman, J. S. (2019). Social determinants of health: Future directions for health disparities research. American Journal of Public Health, 109(S1), S70–S71. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.2019.304964

WHO. (2023). Social determinants of health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1