Introduction to Social Determinants of Health from Coursera

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Syllabus

Introduction to Social Determinants of Health

The purpose of this module is to provide an introduction to the social determinants of health in the context of this specialization. In lesson one, we will define the social determinants of health, explore how our understanding of social determinants has changed over time, and analyze the impact health inequity has on society. We will also consider the variety of transformational ideas that can be used to address health inequities. In lesson two, we will review different ways of knowing and how community knowledge can be augmented with data to influence policy. We will also evaluate defining characteristics of data, as we assess how data, analysis and partnership can be leveraged to create power for transformative change.

Theoretical Perspective

The purpose of this module is to provide a foundation of theoretical knowledge to support systems thinking and knowledge management principles applied to determinants of health. Systems thinking involves making distinctions, understanding systems, relationships, points of view and perspective taking. In lesson one, we will learn about the DSRP theory in regard to developing a systems thinking mindset. In lesson two, we introduce the Data to Action Hourglass model as a conceptual framework and a way to think about the different logical levels and relationships between and among determinants of health.

Collective Impact

The purpose of this module is to introduce the concept of collective impact as a model and method for designing data driven collective impact initiatives. The principles and phases of collective impact are described and explained. Collective impact thinking requires a shift in mind that requires attention to systems thinking. Using a collective impact mindset supports and encourages collaboration and team science and the use of standardized data sets to understand and support knowledge work and translation with community and population data sets. Example case studies illustrate the power and potential of collective impact efforts to create transformational changes to support desired health care futures.

Minority Stress Theory

In this module we will define minority stress theory as it relates to the social determinants of health. In lesson one, we will define minority stress, and examine how systemic discrimination contributes to minority stress. We will also look at how minority stress can lead to health disparities. In lesson two, we will discuss the effects of structural inequalities on both advantage and disadvantaged groups. We will also explore the personal, interpersonal and social effects of minority stress. Finally, we will evaluate the personal and social resources available to counteract minority stress, as well as the ways in which data can be used to enact transformative changes.

Data Applications: Frequency Analysis and Bar Chart Visualization

This module will focus on analyzing, displaying and interpreting social determinants of health data, with a particular focus on identifying social determinants of health in large datasets. Lesson one will provide an overview of frequency analyses and bar chart visualizations. In lesson two, we will learn how to use the R environment in Coursera. Lesson three will introduce us to the datasets, NHANES and Omaha System, which we will use throughout the Data Application modules in this specialization. In lesson four, we will learn how to conduct frequency analyses and create bar charts in R. Using the NHANES dataset, we will obtain the frequencies of income, education, family savings, depression and insurance by race. Using the Omaha System dataset, we will obtain the frequencies of common social determinants by both race and ethnicity. Finally, we will discuss how to interpret the results of our analysis as we visualize our findings using bar plots.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces foundational understandings, methods, and tools in health equity and social determinants of health

Taught by internationally recognized experts in advanced practice nursing, Karen Monsen, PhD, RN, FAMIA, FNAP, FAAN, and Daniel J. Pesut, PhD, RN, FAAN

Offers a nuanced understanding social determinants of health and health inequities for real-world application

Provides an understanding of social determinants of health and addresses the social and political contexts of health equity

Requires students to engage with real-world data from NHANES and the Omaha System, fostering data literacy and evidence-based decision-making

Examines social determinants of health through the lens of Minority Stress Theory, highlighting the impact of discrimination and systemic barriers on health outcomes

Teaches data applications, including frequency analysis and bar chart visualization, for analyzing and interpreting social determinants of health data

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Social Determinants of Health with these activities:

Review Social determinants of health

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This activity will help you prepare for this course by giving you a deeper understanding of Social determinants of health.

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Read the Wikipedia page on social determinants of health
Read the WHO page on social determinants of health
Watch a YouTube video on social determinants of health

Create a mind map of the social determinants of health

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This activity will help you understand the relationships between the different social determinants of health.

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Use a mind mapping tool to create a map of the social determinants of health
Add branches to the map for each of the different social determinants of health
Add sub-branches to the map for each of the different factors that contribute to each social determinant of health

Discuss the social determinants of health with a peer

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This activity will help you learn from your peers and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.

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Find a peer who is also taking this course
Meet with your peer to discuss the social determinants of health
Share your thoughts and ideas with your peer

Five other activities

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Practice identifying the social determinants of health

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This activity will help you improve your ability to identify the social determinants of health in real-world situations.

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Find a case study or news article that discusses a health issue
Identify the different social determinants of health that are contributing to the health issue
Discuss your findings with a peer or instructor

Develop a plan to address a social determinant of health in your community

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This activity will help you apply your knowledge of the social determinants of health to a real-world problem.

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Identify a social determinant of health that you would like to address in your community
Research the social determinant of health and its impact on your community
Develop a plan to address the social determinant of health in your community
Implement your plan
Evaluate the impact of your plan

Attend a workshop on the social determinants of health

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This activity will help you learn from experts and gain a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health.

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Find a workshop on the social determinants of health
Register for the workshop
Attend the workshop

Participate in a contest or competition on the social determinants of health

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This activity will help you test your knowledge of the social determinants of health and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative solutions to health issues.

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Find a contest or competition on the social determinants of health
Register for the contest or competition
Develop your entry
Submit your entry

Create a compilation of resources on the social determinants of health

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This activity will help you learn about a variety of resources that can help you to understand and address the social determinants of health.

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Search for resources on the social determinants of health
Organize the resources into a compilation
Share the compilation with your peers and instructors

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Social Determinants of Health will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Health Equity Advocate

Health Equity Advocates work to eliminate health disparities and promote health equity for all. They work with a variety of organizations, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups. This course may be useful for Health Equity Advocates as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Equity Advocates can better advocate for policies and programs that address the root causes of health inequities.

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Health Economist

Health Economists study the economic aspects of health care. They use a variety of economic models and techniques to analyze the costs and benefits of health care interventions. This course may be useful for Health Economists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Economists can better understand the social factors that influence the demand for and supply of health care.

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Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists investigate the causes and distribution of diseases and other health conditions in populations. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and field studies. This course may be useful for Epidemiologists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Epidemiologists can better identify and address the root causes of health inequities.

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Health Data Analyst

Health Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret health data. They use a variety of statistical and data analysis techniques to identify trends and patterns in health data. This course may be useful for Health Data Analysts as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Data Analysts can better understand the social factors that influence health outcomes.

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Public Health Educator

Public Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, community health centers, and government agencies. This course may be useful for Public Health Educators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Public Health Educators can better design and implement programs that address the root causes of health inequities.

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Health Policy Analyst

Health Policy Analysts conduct research and analysis to inform health policy decisions. They work for a variety of organizations, including government agencies, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. This course may be useful for Health Policy Analysts as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Policy Analysts can better design and implement policies that address the root causes of health inequities.

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Community Health Worker

Community Health Workers provide health education and support to individuals and families in their communities. They work in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and community centers. This course may be useful for Community Health Workers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Community Health Workers can better address the root causes of health inequities and improve the health of their communities.

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Health Insurance Underwriter

Health Insurance Underwriters assess the risk of insuring individuals and groups for health insurance. They use a variety of factors to determine the likelihood that an individual or group will file a claim, including age, health status, and lifestyle. This course may be useful for Health Insurance Underwriters as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Insurance Underwriters can better understand the social factors that influence health risk.

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Health Services Researcher

Health Services Researchers study the organization, financing, and delivery of health care services. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and qualitative research. This course may be useful for Health Services Researchers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Services Researchers can better understand the social factors that influence access to and quality of health care.

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Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare Administrators plan, organize, and direct the operations of health care organizations. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This course may be useful for Healthcare Administrators as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Healthcare Administrators can better understand the social factors that influence the health of their patients and communities.

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Public Health Nurse

Public Health Nurses work to protect and improve the health of communities. They provide a variety of services, including health screenings, vaccinations, and education. Public Health Nurses may work in a variety of settings, such as schools, clinics, and community health centers. This course may be useful for Public Health Nurses as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Public Health Nurses can better address the root causes of health inequities and improve the health of their communities.

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Demographer

Demographers study population trends and patterns. They use a variety of methods, including data analysis, surveys, and projections. This course may be useful for Demographers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Demographers can better understand the social factors that influence population health and well-being.

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Sociologist

Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They use a variety of methods, including surveys, interviews, and observations. This course may be useful for Sociologists as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Sociologists can better understand the social factors that influence health and well-being.

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Social Worker

Social Workers help people navigate complex social systems, such as healthcare, education, and housing. They work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to address a wide range of issues, including poverty, mental illness, and addiction. This course may be useful for Social Workers as it provides a foundation in the social determinants of health. By understanding the social determinants of health, Social Workers can better advocate for their clients and help them overcome the challenges they face.

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Health Educator

Health Educators use a variety of media to educate the public, communities, and specific populations about health issues. They develop, implement, and evaluate health education programs. This course may be useful for Health Educators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health, including definitions, theoretical perspectives, and data applications. By understanding the social determinants of health, Health Educators can better design and implement programs that address the root causes of health inequities.

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