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

In a significant development for health policy, Jessica Schubel, special assistant to the President for Health Care at the Domestic Policy Council, is set to deliver the opening keynote address at the third annual Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) Policy Forum. The event, organized by RISE and Aligning for Health, will take place from December 2-4, 2024, at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C., bringing together policymakers and practitioners to discuss crucial health equity issues.

Schubel's address, scheduled for December 3 at 9:10 a.m., is expected to provide valuable insights into the future of SDoH policy in federal programs. Her presentation will cover the latest initiatives, challenges, and opportunities for creating more equitable health outcomes, current federal efforts to integrate SDoH into health care policy, recent policy developments, and collaborative efforts between various levels of government and community organizations.

The importance of this forum cannot be overstated, as it addresses the critical intersection of social factors and health outcomes. Social determinants of health, which include economic stability, education access, healthcare access, neighborhood environment, and social context, have been increasingly recognized as crucial factors influencing overall health and well-being. By focusing on these determinants, policymakers and health professionals aim to create more comprehensive and effective strategies to improve public health and reduce health disparities.

The three-day event will feature presentations from key stakeholders, including representatives from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, members of Congress, health plans, and community-based organizations. These diverse perspectives will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and future directions in SDoH policy.

A new addition to this year's forum is a preconference workshop on December 2, focusing on policy principles and the current landscape. This session will cover essential terminology, the interplay between federal, state, and local levels of government, funding streams, and legislative efforts in the SDoH and health equity space. This workshop aims to provide attendees with a solid foundation for understanding the complex policy environment surrounding social determinants of health.

The forum's timing is particularly significant as the healthcare industry continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted and exacerbated existing health disparities. By bringing together key decision-makers and practitioners, the event has the potential to shape future policies and initiatives that could have far-reaching impacts on public health and healthcare delivery in the United States.

The inclusion of a volunteer food packing event in partnership with U.S. Hunger underscores the forum's commitment to addressing practical aspects of social determinants of health, such as food insecurity. This hands-on activity provides attendees with an opportunity to directly contribute to community well-being while discussing policy-level solutions.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve towards more holistic and preventive approaches, events like the Social Determinants of Health Policy Forum play a crucial role in shaping the future of health policy. By facilitating dialogue between policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations, the forum aims to foster innovative solutions that address the root causes of health inequities and improve overall population health.

The outcomes and discussions from this forum have the potential to influence future legislation, funding allocations, and healthcare practices across the nation. As such, the event represents a significant opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the U.S. healthcare system towards one that more effectively addresses the social and environmental factors that impact health outcomes.