Inclusive CareBridge

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a time to recognize the valuable contributions workers with disabilities bring to America's workforce and economy. Despite often being overlooked, people with disabilities continue to make a significant impact. In 2023, 22.5% of people with a disability were employed, the highest rate since data collection began in 2008. This demonstrates that when given the opportunity, individuals with disabilities add immense value to the workforce. This month provides an opportunity for employers to commit to fostering inclusive workplaces. Companies can review their policies to ensure they reflect a commitment to inclusivity, establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) that support employees with disabilities, and train supervisors and staff on fostering an inclusive culture and providing reasonable accommodations. Additionally, participating in Disability Mentoring Day helps promote career development for youth with disabilities through hands-on programs and mentorship. https://lnkd.in/gjrU2qTT

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights the impact of social risk factors on preventive healthcare. Researchers found that individuals facing social challenges, such as limited education and lack of access to care, were less likely to receive essential services like mammograms, Pap tests, flu or pneumococcal vaccines, and colonoscopies. The study, led by Dr. Tamara Schroeder from UC Davis, analyzed data from over 82,000 individuals and revealed a clear association between social risks and decreased odds of receiving preventive care. For instance, those with educational deficits were 27% less likely to receive mammograms, while limited access to care further reduced these odds. This research underscores the importance of addressing social risk factors to improve health outcomes and ensure equitable access to preventive services. https://lnkd.in/de9sn4Gz.

Two new studies reveal significant disparities in access to preventive care, despite coverage mandates under the Affordable Care Act. Research published in JAMA Network Open shows that insurers are more likely to deny preventive care claims for Asian, Black, Hispanic, and low-income patients, raising concerns about inequities in healthcare. These patients are being charged for care that should be free, with low-income individuals facing a 43% higher chance of denial. A related study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that 40% of privately insured patients were billed for preventive care services that should have been covered, such as wellness visits and cancer screenings. These findings highlight the ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable access to preventive care, which is critical for improving population health and reducing long-term costs. #HealthcareEquity #PreventiveCare #HealthDisparities #PublicHealth #Obamacare #AffordableCareAct #HealthInsurance https://lnkd.in/gc5zKkkS

Many individuals find themselves facing their golden years alone, a reality that often brings feelings of loneliness and isolation. This demographic, comprising over 16 million Americans, is often overlooked despite facing significant health challenges. Nearly 40% of seniors living alone experience issues like vision and hearing loss, difficulties with self-care, and cognitive impairments, according to recent KFF analysis of census data. The isolation many older adults endure can increase their risk of depression, inactivity, and neglecting their health, leading to higher hospitalization rates and earlier deaths. Accessing medical services becomes even more challenging for those in rural areas or without reliable transportation. Conversations with seniors reveal common concerns about loneliness, the search for support, and uncertainties regarding their ability to care for themselves. This "gray revolution" in living arrangements reflects longer life spans, rising divorce rates, and changing family dynamics, resulting in a significant increase in older adults living alone. As we reflect on these experiences, it’s crucial to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by seniors living alone and advocate for more supportive health care practices that consider their living situations. Understanding their needs is essential to improving their quality of life and ensuring they receive the care and companionship they deserve. https://lnkd.in/e-Cm6QNy

The concept of?Food as Medicine?(FaM) is transforming how we approach health, integrating nutrition-based solutions into healthcare strategies. With almost 60% of Americans changing their eating habits post-pandemic, FaM initiatives like medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions are vital for addressing food insecurity and diet-related diseases. Driven by $8 billion in public-private investments, FaM is making healthy food accessible, reducing healthcare costs, and improving outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. #FoodAsMedicine #PublicHealth #Nutrition #HealthcareInnovation #SDOH #FoodSecurity https://lnkd.in/eQz8-mDb

A recent Medical Economics? report revealed that 92% of physicians experience burnout during their careers, with 62% currently feeling its effects. Burnout, defined by the AMA as emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal achievement, stems from factors like long work hours, administrative burdens, and misalignment between individual and organizational values. Interestingly, addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) within value-based care models may help alleviate provider burnout. By considering patients' social risks, such as lack of transportation or access to healthy food, healthcare providers can improve outcomes, reduce patient frustrations, and enhance patient-provider relationships. This holistic approach not only benefits patients but can also decrease stress for clinicians. To support this, integrating social workers, using technology to screen for SDOH, and streamlining administrative tasks can ease the burden on healthcare providers, leading to a healthier workforce and better care. #ProviderBurnout #SDOH #ValueBasedCare #HealthcareInnovation #HealthEquity #PatientCare #HealthcareLeadership https://lnkd.in/gnhXDWhy

5 Underrecognized Social Determinants of Health While discussions about Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) often focus on income or education, there are other critical factors that can significantly impact health outcomes. These underrecognized SDoH play a complex role in shaping health disparities. Here's a look at five often overlooked SDoH and their effects: Safe Housing Job Opportunities Broadband Internet Access Social Connections Exposure to Violence Each of these determinants has a profound effect on health and wellbeing, underscoring the need for holistic interventions to address them. #SDoH #PopulationHealth #HealthEquity #HealthcareTransformation https://lnkd.in/gHPpu2Xc

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and take action against the silent epidemic affecting millions of lives. Suicide and suicidal behavior are significant public health challenges, often influenced by negative social determinants of health such as poverty, racism, and barriers to accessing mental healthcare. These negative conditions disproportionately affect marginalized groups, leading to higher suicide rates among veterans, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living in rural areas. By addressing these social conditions, we can help prevent suicide and reduce the disparities in its impact. From promoting economic support to creating protective environments and improving access to mental healthcare, there are steps we can take to make a difference. Let's come together to support those struggling, build a connected and compassionate community, and raise awareness about the importance of mental health. Together, we can save lives. #NationalSuicidePreventionMonth #MentalHealthMatters #EndTheStigma #SupportIsHere https://lnkd.in/gyvZ7M5r

Two recent studies presented at the American Heart Association's Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2024 highlight concerns about high blood pressure and unmet social needs among young adults and children in the U.S. The findings show that hypertension is prevalent among young adults (18-39 years), with social determinants of health like food insecurity and lack of health insurance amplifying the risks. Additionally, nearly 14% of youth aged 8-19 were found to have elevated or high blood pressure. Addressing these issues through targeted public health strategies is essential to improve cardiovascular health outcomes across generations. https://lnkd.in/gq4eUCzT

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the alarming rise in obesity among children in the U.S., where nearly 20% of children and adolescents are affected. Food insecurity is a critical factor contributing to childhood obesity, particularly in marginalized communities. Limited access to healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, is common in areas affected by systemic inequality and economic hardship. Research shows that obesity is linked to severe health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and shortened life expectancy. Reversing childhood obesity trends requires addressing these systemic issues by expanding access to nutritious foods and safe spaces for physical activity. By promoting equitable food access and early prevention efforts, we can protect future generations from the long-term impacts of obesity. #ChildhoodObesityAwarenessMonth #FoodInsecurity #PublicHealth #ChildhoodNutrition #HealthyCommunities https://lnkd.in/ghFrV56N.