Social Determinants of Health: Examining Poverty, Housing, and Education in Widening U.S. Healthcare Access Disparities

Abstract

Social determinants of health (SDOH)—including poverty, housing stability, and education—play a critical role in shaping healthcare access and health outcomes in the United States. Persistent socioeconomic disparities create barriers to quality healthcare, particularly among low-income and marginalized communities. Individuals living in poverty face financial constraints, inadequate health insurance, and limited access to preventive care, increasing their risk of chronic illnesses and poor health outcomes. Similarly, unstable or inadequate housing contributes to increased exposure to environmental hazards, mental health stressors, and difficulty accessing healthcare facilities, further exacerbating health disparities. Education is a fundamental determinant of healthcare access, as lower educational attainment is linked to reduced health literacy, lower employment opportunities, and poorer health decision-making. Limited education impacts the ability to navigate complex healthcare systems, leading to delayed treatments, medication nonadherence, and lower preventive care utilization. Together, these social determinants create a cycle of health inequity, disproportionately affecting racial and ethnic minorities, rural populations, and individuals in economically disadvantaged areas. This paper examines the interconnected impact of poverty, housing instability, and education on healthcare access disparities, evaluates existing policies and community-based interventions aimed at addressing these challenges, and explores evidence-based strategies to promote health equity. Strengthening social policies, expanding affordable healthcare access, and investing in community health programs are essential to reducing disparities and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations.