Addressing Social Determinants of Health to Reduce Disparities Among Individuals with Cancer: Insights for Rehabilitation Professionals

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This report aims to provide a framework for cancer rehabilitation professionals to assess social determinants of health in individuals with cancer and discuss strategies that can be implemented in practice to overcome barriers to care. Recent Findings: There has been an increased focus in improving patient conditions that can affect access to cancer rehabilitation. Along with government and world health organization initiatives, healthcare professionals and institutions continue to work towards decreasing disparities. Several disparities exist in healthcare and education access and quality, patients’ social and community context, neighborhood and built environments, and economic stability. Summary: The authors emphasized the challenges that patients who require cancer rehabilitation face that healthcare providers, institutions, and governments can mitigate with outlined strategies. Education and collaboration are essential to make true progress in decreasing disparities in the populations most in need.