Cedars-Sinai Magazine
Real-Life Health Solutions
Wellbeing isn’t only dictated by genes or habits. A growing body of data directly links a person’s health to their life challenges—such as struggles related to housing, food, finances, transportation, substance use and mental illness. Researchers refer to these types of challenges as “social determinants of health.” A 2015 study concluded that only 20% of health outcomes are attributable to medical care, while 80% are driven by social influences.
Cedars-Sinai is addressing these real-life risk factors through the new Community Connect Program, which aims to screen all patients for social determinants of health. Care teams can then refer patients experiencing health-related social needs to community support services. Particularly vulnerable patients are paired with community health workers who provide one-on-one assistance. Cedars-Sinai has also launched CS Community Resource, a database accessible to patients and the public that locates free or reduced-cost support services.
By the Numbers
89,513
patients screened for social determinants of health
5,000+
social service organizations throughout Greater L.A. listed on CS Community Resource
13
social factors considered in screenings
580+
social service organizations to which the Community Connect team can refer patients in need
1 to 1
ratio of community health workers to vulnerable patients who need individualized assistance
