The Role of Social Determinants in Health Care: Student Reflections on Patient Needs, Community Resources, and Interprofessional Development

Abstract

BACKGROUND Teaching emerging health care professionals the importance of addressing social determinants of health is an important step toward equitable care. To this end, students need both an understanding of the narrative of those living with limited healthcare access and the opportunity to reflect upon how experiential learning impacts their views on health care services and professional development. PURPOSE The purpose of the study was to assess experiential self-reflections among health professions students after participating in an interprofessional, community-based program designed to provide much-needed health care to vulnerable populations. METHODS After participation, students provided reflections regarding their views on 1) individuals receiving care, 2) community needs and resources, and 3) their own interprofessional growth. A qualitative, iterative process was used to identify emergent themes. RESULTS Themes specific to both participants and community resources centered on poor access to care, dental and vision needs, and limited awareness of available resources. Those specific to students’ interprofessional experience and professional growth include patient outcomes, understanding community characteristics, communication skills, and an appreciation of interprofessional, multi-level delivery of services. CONCLUSIONS Consideration of social determinants of care is an important conduit toward clarifying one’s views of vulnerable populations and as a means of enhancing professional growth and development.