Lawmakers must focus on health of vulnerable populations

Unfortunately, the circumstances of where you start in life too often determine the health outcomes and expectations later in life. The COVID-19 crisis, for example, has demonstrated that those with pre-existing health challenges like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease - all conditions that have a demonstrably greater impact on underserved communities are more susceptible to the COVID-19 virus.

The environments in which people live, social support networks, availability of quality health care and access to safe housing and nutrition have a critical impact on health. Understanding and addressing these social determinants of health is an integral part of creating actionable steps to improve community health, not only in our recovery from the current pandemic but in continuing to improve our nation’s health care system and making it more affordable.

As Americans continue to grapple with rising health care costs, surprise medical bills, and often inadequate access to care, legislators should commit to improving the underlying drivers of health to better serve vulnerable populations. Addressing and improving the circumstances under which people live will improve the health of individuals and communities, diminish the onset of chronic conditions and save American patients money. Natalie Coughlin Development and Communications Manager Maternal and Child Health Consortium