In recent years, the importance of social determinants of health has become increasingly apparent in the healthcare industry, and this has extended to the technology and cybersecurity domains as well. The conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age significantly impact their health and well-being, and addressing social determinants of health is critical for improving health outcomes.
The social determinants of health include factors such as income, education, employment status, social support networks, access to healthcare, and safe and affordable housing. In the technology and cybersecurity domains, these factors translate into the use of technology and access to secure and reliable digital infrastructure.
Inadequate access to technology and digital infrastructure can hinder access to healthcare, limit educational and employment opportunities, and create disparities in health outcomes. For example, individuals without reliable internet access may have difficulty scheduling medical appointments, accessing telehealth services, or receiving healthcare information. This can lead to delayed or inadequate medical treatment and, in turn, lead to poor health outcomes.
Furthermore, cybersecurity is a critical concern when addressing social determinants of health in the technology domain. Cybersecurity risks can compromise sensitive patient data, resulting in identity theft, medical fraud, or other negative outcomes. Vulnerabilities in digital infrastructure can also expose patients to malware and ransomware attacks, which can have significant consequences on their health and well-being.
"Your zip code can be more important than your genetic code in determining your health." - Dr. Tony Iton
To address these concerns, a collaborative effort is required between the healthcare industry, technology providers, and cybersecurity experts. This involves advocating for policies and programs that address social determinants of health in the technology and cybersecurity domains, providing secure and reliable digital infrastructure to support healthcare services, and developing cybersecurity strategies to protect patient data and infrastructure.
As healthcare technology professionals and leaders, we must recognize the critical role of social determinants of health in these domains and work collaboratively to address them effectively. This involves advocating for secure and reliable digital infrastructure, developing cybersecurity strategies to protect patient data, and promoting equitable access to technology.
