Wk 1 Discussion

Discussion: Social Determinants of Health

Your Learning Resources this week challenge the traditional belief that increasing access to medical care will improve health. In fact, much of this course will challenge the notion that medical care or primary prevention is the answer that will solve the world’s population health problems. While prevention and health care do play a role, they are not a “cure” for population health. The alternative way of perceiving population health introduced in The Spirit Level and the course media contradicts these long-held beliefs.

As you focus your attention on the various determinants of health, think about how you can contribute to social change, locally or even globally, to improve population health.

To prepare for this Discussion, review the week’s Learning Resources, including the media elements. Pay particular attention to the episode of Unnatural Causes.