I believe that concepts like Social Determinants of Health have not been used as much in the health care industry due to several factors, including the prevailing medical model, anthro-cultural beliefs and values, and the history of health care services.
Prevailing Medical Model: The prevailing medical model in the United States has traditionally focused on a disease-centered approach to healthcare. This model emphasizes diagnosis and treatment of specific illnesses or conditions rather than addressing the broader social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health. This narrow focus on individual medical care has overshadowed the importance of social determinants of health in shaping population health outcomes.
Anthro-Cultural Beliefs and Values: The cultural beliefs and values in the United States have often prioritized individualism and personal responsibility for health. There is a prevalent belief that individuals are solely responsible for their own health outcomes, which overlooks the significant impact of social determinants such as income, education, housing, and access to healthy food. This cultural emphasis on personal responsibility can deter policymakers and healthcare providers from addressing social determinants of health as a collective responsibility.
History of Health Care Services: The history of health care services in the United States has been primarily focused on acute care and treatment of illnesses rather than prevention and addressing social determinants. The development of the healthcare system has been driven by a fee-for-service reimbursement model, which incentivizes providers to deliver more interventions and treatments rather than investing in preventive measures or addressing social determinants. This historical context has shaped the priorities and practices of the health care industry.
However, it is important to note that there has been a growing recognition of the impact of social determinants of health in recent years. Research has shown that social factors play a significant role in health outcomes, and there is increasing awareness that addressing social determinants can lead to improved population health and reduced healthcare costs. Efforts are being made to incorporate these concepts into healthcare policies and practices, but it requires a shift in mindset and a broader recognition of the importance of social determinants.
In conclusion, concepts like Social Determinants of Health have not been widely used in the health care industry due to the prevailing medical model, anthro-cultural beliefs and values, and the historical focus on acute care. However, there is a growing recognition of the impact of social determinants on health outcomes, and efforts are being made to integrate these concepts into healthcare policies and practices. It will require a shift in perspective and a collective effort to address social determinants as a means of improving population health.