National Hispanic Heritage Month 2024: Learn More

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THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH ON HISPANIC/LATINO HEALTH OUTCOMES

The relationship between social determinants of health (SDOH) and health disparities and inequities is complex and multilayered. SDOH are the conditions in which people are born, grow, learn, work, play, live, and age, and the wider set of structural factors shaping the conditions of daily life. Health disparities are the preventable differences in burden of disease, injury, violence, and opportunities to achieve optimal health experienced by socially disadvantaged groups. Health disparities are often the result of or exacerbated by intersecting SDOH factors.

SDOH can be grouped into five domains:

Hispanics/Latinos contend with a wide range of intersecting SDOH factors that can lead to adverse health outcomes and contribute to growing health disparities within the population including disproportionately high rates of:

Social Determinants of Health

Hispanics/Latinos have the highest uninsured rate of any racial or ethnic group in the United States and are more likely to report poor communication with their health care provider. When a patient feels that receiving medical care is too expensive and that they can’t communicate with a provider because of language or cultural barriers, it can lead to receiving inadequate health services or avoiding care altogether.

Having access to timely, respectful care can help Hispanics/Latinos address or avoid preventable diseases and conditions. By addressing SDOH through a comprehensive approach, we can work to advance health equity and reduce health disparities among Hispanic/Latino populations.

Click on the headings below to learn more about the five SDOH domains and the role they play in health outcomes for Hispanic/Latino populations, as well as suggested reading curated by the OMH Knowledge Center librarians. The resources in this list are available to read and download for free. For more resources on the health of Hispanic/Latino populations in the United States, please visit the OMH Knowledge Center online catalog. 

Economic Stability

Economic stability refers to having a steady income and enough resources to meet basic needs such as food, housing, healthcare, and transportation. People with economic stability are more likely to have good health outcomes, while those who are struggling financially are more likely to experience health problems.

Education Access and Quality

Access to educational resources and quality education plays a significant role in health. Education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to understand health information and make informed decisions about their health and the healthcare system.

Health Care Access and Quality

Health care access and quality of care is a fundamental social determinant of health. Geographic proximity, affordability, and availability of healthcare providers all influence how easily people can get the care they need. Approximately 10% of the U.S. population does not have health insurance, which can prevent individuals from seeking out healthcare services. Difficulty navigating the healthcare system and lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate care providers can also affect access to quality care.

Neighborhood and Built Environment

Neighborhoods play a key role in health. Where you live can significantly impact your health and well-being. Unfortunately, racial and ethnic minority populations and low-income residents are more likely to live in neighborhoods with higher health risks. Creating neighborhoods and environments that promote health and safety, like walkable communities and accessible greenspaces, can help improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Social and Community Context

Social connections matter. Relationships with family, friends, and community provide support, reduce stress, and influence healthy behaviors. Strong social connections and a sense of belonging within a community foster well-being. Discrimination, unsafe neighborhoods, and lack of resources can hinder getting the social support needed for good health.


Last Edited: 09/13/2024