Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in which people are born

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Social determinants of health (SDOH) are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These conditions are shaped by a wide range of factors, including socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, gender, education, housing, access to healthcare, and the environment. SDOHs have a significant impact on people’s health and well-being, and they can contribute to health disparities (WHO, 2020). Digital inclusion is the ability of individuals and communities to access, use, and create information and communication technologies (ICTs). ICTs include many devices and services, such as computers, smartphones, the internet, and social media. Digital inclusion is essential for people to participate fully in modern society and to access essential services, such as healthcare, education, and employment (Choi et al, 2019). Broadband access is the availability of high-speed internet service. Broadband access is essential for using many digital health technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs), mobile health (mHealth) apps, patient portals, and telemedicine (Sieck, C. 2022). Whether digital inclusion or broadband access should be added to the five key areas of SDOH is a complex question. There is a strong argument that both are essential for health equity for healthcare. On the one hand, digital inclusion is more than just access to broadband internet. It also includes the skills and knowledge needed to use digital technologies effectively. People who lack digital literacy may have difficulty using digital health tools, even if they have broadband access (HealthIT.gov. n.d.). On the other hand, broadband access is essential for using many digital health technologies. Without broadband access, people may not be able to access their EHRs, use health apps, or participate in telemedicine visits (CDC, 2020). Impact of digital health technologies on SDOH Digital health technologies can have a positive impact on SDOH by increasing access to healthcare services, especially for people who live in rural or underserved communities, empowering patients to manage their health and well-being, supporting preventive care and early intervention, and reducing health disparities. However, digital health technologies can also be impacted by SDOH. For example, people with lower socioeconomic status may be less likely to have access to broadband internet or digital devices. They may also be less likely to have the digital literacy skills needed to use digital health tools effectively (Sieck, 2022). How to ensure equitable access to digital health technologies To ensure equitable access to digital health technologies, it is important to address the social determinants of health that can impact digital inclusion and broadband access (WHO, 2020). Where healthcare is limited, especially in rural areas, the following “Healthy People 2023” health equity and health literacy need to be addressed. This can be obtained by, investing in affordable broadband infrastructure in all communities, providing digital literacy training and support to people who need it, and making digital health tools and services more accessible and affordable for people with lower socioeconomic status (WHO, 2020). Conclusion Digital inclusion and broadband access are essential for accessing and using digital health technologies. These technologies can have a positive impact on SDOH by increasing access to healthcare services, empowering patients to manage their health, and supporting preventive care and early intervention. However, digital health technologies can also be impacted by SDOH. To ensure equitable access to digital health technologies, it is important to address the social determinants of health that can impact digital inclusion and broadband access (Choi et al, 2019). President Biden just wrapped up a stop today (January 18, 2024) in economic investment in North Raleigh, NC, regarding internet investment, broadband networks, and access to high-speed internet. He drove home the access to an 11-billion-dollar investment in NC by 2030, especially the rural communities. https://abc11.com/joe-biden-north-carolina-triangle-president-visit/14329832/Links to an external site.. References: Choi, N. G., Oh, H. J., & Kim, K. (2019). Digital divide in the use of patient portals: A systematic review. International Journal of Medical Informatics, 123, 101-111. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (2020). Social determinants of health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology. (2022). Digital inclusion. HealthIT.gov. Sieck, C. (2022). Digital inclusion as a social determinant of health. Detroit Area Agency on Aging. World Health Organization. (2022). Social determinants of health.

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