Social Determinants of Health Group VIII

1) Public Policy Problem Poor health status of Americans due to the neglect of non-medical contributors to health

2) Dimensions of the problem The U.S. ranks 23 rd in the world in life expectancy, yet ranks first in healthcare spending 50% of health problems are attributable to social, economic, and environmental factors Disadvantaged Americans are exposed to non- medical risks that produce poor health and diminished life chances

3) Rationale for Pursuing this Problem America is not getting good value for its health care spending Improving population health could: –Enhance the productivity of the workforce –Boost the national economy –Reduce healthcare expenditures –Improve the lives of all Americans Investing in disadvantaged communities will advance America’s health

Goals To develop a multi-sector model for improving health by engaging leaders from communities, businesses, civic organizations, education, urban planning, and health and healthcare. To reduce morbidity and mortality through this process

4) Stakeholders—supporters APHA State and territorial health officers Children’s Defense Fund Community Action Partnership La Raza National Hispanic Medical Association National Medical Association Families USA

4) Stakeholders—supporters Congressional Black Caucus Congressional Hispanic Caucus Asian/Pacific-Islander Caucus Rural Health Caucus Rural Action Network Faith-based organizations

4) Stakeholders—opposers Budget/fiscal conservatives Housing, environment, education may prefer direct allocations

5) Action Plan To refine and expand community-based partnership models for improving population health To develop a broad-based coalition among supporters: –explore a legislative strategy –identify alternate funding mechanisms (federal vs foundations vs state/local vs conversion funds) –identify possible pilot communities –develop marketing/communication