Social determinants of health—such as the conditions in which people are born, live, work, and age—play a critical role in shaping health outcomes. Nurses possess a unique understanding of patient care and community health, which places them at the forefront of addressing factors to drive meaningful change.
Indiana University School of Nursing researchers are leading efforts to promote health equity by advocating for better access to healthcare, tackling root causes like poverty, education, and housing, and influencing policy changes that improve well-being. By focusing on these social determinants, nurses are helping to reduce disparities in care and create healthier, more equitable communities.