White House Official to Address Social Determinants of Health at Policy Forum

The upcoming Social Determinants of Health Policy Forum is set to feature a keynote address from Jessica Schubel, special assistant to the President for Health Care at the White House Domestic Policy Council. This high-profile speaker underscores the growing importance of social determinants of health (SDoH) in shaping federal healthcare policy and efforts to achieve more equitable health outcomes across the United States.

Scheduled for December 3, Schubel's address will outline the Biden administration's current initiatives and future directions for incorporating SDoH into federal health programs. Her presentation is expected to cover the challenges and opportunities in creating more equitable health outcomes, as well as collaborative efforts between federal agencies, state and local governments, and community organizations.

The three-day forum, jointly organized by RISE and Aligning for Health for the third consecutive year, brings together policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and community organizations to advance policies that support stronger communities and better health. This year's event, taking place at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C., from December 2-4, will feature presentations from key federal agencies including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as members of Congress and representatives from health plans and community-based organizations.

The focus on social determinants of health reflects a growing recognition within the healthcare industry and policy circles that factors such as housing, food security, education, and economic stability play crucial roles in determining health outcomes. By addressing these social and environmental factors, policymakers and healthcare providers aim to improve overall population health and reduce disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

A new addition to this year's forum is a preconference workshop on December 2, which will provide attendees with a comprehensive overview of the SDoH policy landscape. The workshop will cover key terminology, the interplay between federal, state, and local policy levels, funding streams, and current legislative efforts in the SDoH and health equity space. This addition aims to equip participants with a solid foundation for engaging in policy discussions and implementation strategies.

The forum's agenda highlights the multifaceted approach needed to address social determinants of health effectively. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from government, healthcare, and community organizations, the event aims to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing that can lead to more integrated and effective policies.

The inclusion of a volunteer food packing event in partnership with U.S. Hunger on the opening day of the forum demonstrates a commitment to practical action alongside policy discussions. This hands-on activity underscores the immediate impact that addressing social needs, such as food insecurity, can have on community health.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve towards value-based care models, understanding and addressing social determinants of health becomes increasingly critical. The insights and strategies shared at this forum have the potential to shape future healthcare policies and practices, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs across the nation.

The Social Determinants of Health Policy Forum represents a significant opportunity for stakeholders to engage with leading policymakers and practitioners in the field. As the nation grapples with persistent health disparities and rising healthcare costs, the discussions and collaborations fostered at this event could play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable and effective healthcare system for all Americans.