EB: “Social determinants of health” means that a person’s health can be determined by factors like where they live, work and play. The availability of health care and a person’s education level are other factors. What I want community members to understand is that they can do something about health inequity. We should all be informed about the ways that health policy affects our health. These policies can cause the inequity that we see in certain communities. Before you vote for politicians, find out their viewpoints on health care. If you hear about a bill or law that will affect you or your community’s access to health care, call your local, state or even national politicians.
HA: Yes. While health care policy changes are happening at a national level with the new president, there’s also a lot happening around us here in Pittsburgh. Our local health department, various churches, professional associations and political organizations, are working on this topic. They’re identifying gaps and providing solutions, while local researchers are gathering data to support these efforts. One such person is Mijung Park, PhD, MSN, MPH, University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing. Her areas of focus include creating new health services models and working with diverse family caregivers.
EB: Thank you for sharing these details and for this conversation, Heather. While it’s unfortunate that there are such disparities among groups, it’s good to know that there are efforts being made at city, state and national levels to address them. And, as members of Pittsburgh’s community, it’s vital for those of us who can speak up about these issues continue to do so.
For more information or with questions, e-mail partners@hs.pitt.edu.
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