Discussion of health outcomes – Replies
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Post #1.
A significant social determinant of health that increase risks for poor health outcomes is lack of education in a rural population. In terms of education, this can apply to basic common sense, as well as levels of organized education. Often in remote areas, low education levels are related to limited access to the most up to date textbooks and relevant technologies like computers (Disparities Between Urban and Suburban Schools, 2015). In addition, because of the distance it is difficult to find highly qualified and experienced educators to relocate to such rural areas, often providing inexperienced and underpaid teachers. With this it is conceivable to understand how the lack of education may lead to poor health outcomes. According to the World Health Organization it is understood low education levels are linked to higher amounts of stress and lack of confidence (The Determinants of Health, 2017). Often cleanliness, safety measures and preparedness, and maintenance issues are also of concern for rural populations, which can lead poor health outcomes in the future.
One approach to combat the lack of education is perhaps offering incentives, if the funds are provided, to hire outside sources who may have more experience and innovative approaches when it comes to bettering education. Of course, financial support can be difficult, and is the easy solution. However, it takes constant education and work through group, fundraising, and simply going the extra mile for future generations. Improving the levels of education will not drastically change with one presentation or change in staff member. It takes a team to motivationally speak and encourage, and to most importantly educate children on issues like safe sex, aspiring for higher education, and allowing them know somebody does care for their well-being. Like mentioned earlier, education does not just apply to organized schools, but also worldly issues.
Reference
Disparities Between Urban and Suburban Schools – Education Facilities Clearinghouse. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2017, from http://www.efc.gwu.edu/library/disparities-between-urban-and-suburban-schools/
The determinants of health. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2017, from http://www.who.int/hia/evidence/doh/en/
Post #2
A social determinant of health is income in vulnerable populations. Poverty is a main vulnerability that can lead to numerous health issues. The chronic stress of factors such as poverty, unemployment and poor education can lead to maladaptive physical responses and disease (Lathrop, 2013). People in this population can live in dangerous or hazardous situations, have poor nutritional habits, their stressors are increased due to not having adequate resources in situation when times get unpredictable or necessary sources for every day needs. Living in poverty also plays a role in a person’s access to health care by not seeking it. These individuals could be living on the verge of homelessness which is another stressor that can lead to poor health outcomes. An innovative approach to helping the poor improve health outcomes is by providing them access to secondary, higher, and health education to let them help themselves. With this approach we can see if there is an decrease in this vulnerable population because individuals are graduating high schools and earning degrees to help them earn more money, to be in less risky positions and understand basic health care needs that could prevent them from minor illnesses. As nurses in the field we could work in areas by census tract to identify the vulnerabilities in that area and start there to implement the process. We as nurses, can educate the population on proper sanitation practices and preventative health measures. The goals need to be simple and manageable to keep the clients encouraged. Working with the client to help them achieve their first goal or getting their family involved will help with successful outcomes. It is helpful to provide comprehensive services in locations where people live and work, including schools, churches, neighborhoods, and workplaces (Lancaster & Stanhope, 2016). Providing adequate resources to the appropriate education is key as well. According to Lancaster & Stanhope, 2016, it is often difficult for vulnerable clients to return for follow up care affecting the evaluation of interventions. With this said, we will try and encourage the importance of follow up care and possibly provide an incentive to return such as a bus pass voucher and a take home kit of essentials. We can measure these interventions through calling the clients or seeing them at home since we are working with such a dense area. Providing an education certificate can lead to increased incentives to help evaluate progress of interventions.
