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Taking action on the social determinants of health in clinical practice: a framework for health professionals

A. Andermann
CMAJ

There is strong evidence from around the globe that people who are poor and less educated have more health problems and die earlier than those who are richer and more educated, and these disparities exist even in wealthy countries like Canada. To make an impact on improving health equity and providing more patient-centred care,3 it is necessary to better understand and address the underlying causes of poor health. Yet physicians often feel helpless and frustrated when faced with the complex and intertwined health and social challenges of their patients. Many avoid asking about social issues, preferring to focus on medical treatment and lifestyle counseling.

Andermann A. Taking action on the social determinants of health in clinical practice: a framework for health professionals. CMAJ. 2016;188(7-18):E474-E483. PMID: 27503870. DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.160177.

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