Which statement best describes the impact of social determinants of health on care planning?

• A. They primarily influence only patient satisfaction.
• B. They are irrelevant to hospital planning.
• C. They are limited to outpatient settings and do not affect outcomes.
• D. They affect access, adherence, and outcomes; teams coordinate to address barriers such as housing, transportation, literacy, and finances.

Answer: (D)

Social determinants of health are nonmedical factors that shape how people access care and manage their health. In care planning, these determinants influence whether patients can actually get to appointments, fill and follow through with treatments, and achieve good outcomes. Because issues like housing stability, transportation, health literacy, and financial constraints can block access and adherence, care teams coordinate with social workers, community resources, transportation services, and financial counselors to address these barriers. When such barriers are addressed, access improves, adherence increases, and health outcomes improve. Statements that say these determinants only affect satisfaction, are irrelevant to planning, or are limited to outpatient settings overlook how they directly drive real-world care and results.