1. In thinking of five social determinants of health as identified in Healthy People 2020, identify the social determinants specifically that may be barriers to home care and case or care management services. Explain your answer. At least 350 words. All answers or discussions comments submitted must be in APA format according to Publication Manual American Psychological Association (APA) (6th ed.) 2009 ISBN: 978-1-4338-0561-5 · Minimum of two references, not older than 2015. Purchase the answer to view it
The social determinants of health are defined as the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life. These determinants play a crucial role in influencing the health outcomes of individuals and communities. In the context of home care and case or care management services, several social determinants can act as barriers to access and utilization. This essay aims to identify five social determinants of health as outlined in Healthy People 2020 and explain how they may hinder the delivery of home care and case or care management services.
One of the social determinants that can be a barrier to home care and case management services is socioeconomic status. Socioeconomic status refers to an individual’s social and economic position in relation to others based on factors such as income, education, and occupation. People with lower socioeconomic status often face financial constraints and lack access to resources required for home care and case management services. For instance, individuals with low income may be unable to afford the costs associated with hiring home care services or may not have access to transportation for case management appointments. Additionally, limited education and employment opportunities among lower socioeconomic groups can result in inadequate knowledge about available services and how to navigate the healthcare system.
Another determinant that can act as a barrier to home care and case management services is race and ethnicity. Health disparities based on race and ethnicity have been well-documented in healthcare delivery. Minority groups, such as African Americans and Hispanic populations, often face higher rates of poverty and limited access to healthcare services compared to their white counterparts. These disparities can prevent individuals from accessing home care services due to financial barriers or a lack of culturally competent care management services. Discrimination and bias within the healthcare system may also contribute to these disparities, leading to reduced trust and utilization of services.
The third social determinant that may hinder home care and case management services is social support networks. Social support refers to the relationships and networks that individuals have within their communities, including family, friends, and neighbors. Strong social support networks can provide assistance and emotional support for individuals needing home care or case management services. However, individuals with limited social support networks may struggle to receive the necessary help and care. For example, older adults without nearby family members or friends may lack the support needed to live independently at home, making home care services essential. Similarly, individuals without a strong social support network may not have someone to accompany them to case management appointments or advocate for their needs, resulting in reduced access to care and support.
Access to healthcare services is another social determinant that can act as a barrier to home care and case management services. Access refers to the availability, affordability, and acceptability of healthcare services. Limited availability of home care providers in certain geographic areas or long wait times for case management appointments can impede individuals’ ability to receive the necessary services. Additionally, affordability is a significant concern, particularly for individuals without comprehensive health insurance coverage. High out-of-pocket costs or lack of insurance coverage can deter individuals from seeking or adhering to recommended home care or case management services. Furthermore, the acceptability of services is influenced by factors such as cultural competency and language barriers. Individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds may face difficulties in accessing home care or case management services due to a lack of culturally appropriate care options or language-related challenges.
The final social determinant that may act as a barrier to home care and case management services is housing. Housing conditions, such as overcrowding or inadequate housing, can hinder the delivery of these services. For example, individuals living in overcrowded homes may not have space for home care providers to deliver services effectively. Additionally, inadequate housing conditions can contribute to poor health outcomes and may require additional support and coordination through case management services. Those experiencing homelessness or unstable housing situations may face even greater challenges in accessing home care or case management services.
In conclusion, several social determinants of health can act as barriers to home care and case management services. Socioeconomic status, race and ethnicity, social support networks, access to healthcare services, and housing are critical factors that influence individuals’ ability to access and utilize these services. Addressing these social determinants is crucial to ensure equitable access to home care and case management services for all individuals and communities.