Framework for building primary care capacity to address the social determinants of health

Problem addressed Family physicians have long understood that social factors influence the health of individuals and communities; however, most primary care organizations have yet to develop the capacity to specifically address these social determinants of health (SDOH).

Objective of program To support SDOH interventions and foster an organizational culture in which addressing SDOH is considered part of high-quality primary care.

Program description An academic family health team in Toronto, Ont, established a committee comprising a diverse group of health professionals focused on the SDOH. The committee analyzes how social factors affect patients and supports the development and implementation of interventions. The committee’s current interventions include the following: collecting and analyzing detailed sociodemographic data to identify health inequities; launching an income security health promotion service; establishing a medical-legal partnership; implementing a child literacy program in its clinics; and developing an advocacy and service program to improve access to decent work. Each intervention includes a rigorous evaluation plan to assess implementation and effect. Next steps include developing tools to enable organizations to “move upstream” and adopt a health equity approach to all work, including joining in advocacy.

Conclusion Primary care providers are well situated to address SDOH. This article provides a framework that can assist every large primary care organization in establishing a similar committee dedicated to SDOH, which could help build a network across Canada to share lessons learned and support joint advocacy.