Course

Social Determinants of Health: Data to Action

University of Minnesota

This five-course specialization, offered by the University of Minnesota, explores the complex interplay between social determinants and health outcomes. Through the Data-to-Action Hourglass Model, learners will gain a multifaceted understanding of how various factors influence health and how to translate this knowledge into meaningful action.

  • Course 1: Introduction to the Social Determinants of Health provides a foundational overview of theoretical perspectives and definitions.
  • Course 2: Social Determinants of Health and Vulnerable Populations examines the impact on groups such as those in poverty, women, and LGBTQI+ individuals.
  • Course 3: Social Determinants of Health and Health Care Systems focuses on the relationship between social determinants and mental health, substance abuse, and trauma.
  • Course 4: Social Determinants of Health and Methodological Opportunities delves into methodological approaches and research tools to inform best practices.
  • Course 5: Social Determinants of Health and Planetary Health explores planetary health as a fundamental determinant and applies futures thinking and foresight principles to health initiatives.

Each course includes a data applications module, allowing learners to practice analyzing, displaying, and interpreting social determinants of health data. This specialization equips participants with actionable insights to drive positive change in the realm of public health and healthcare systems.

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Social Determinants of Health: Data to Action
Course Modules

The course modules in this specialization cover a wide range of topics, including theoretical perspectives, vulnerable populations, health care systems, methodological approaches, and planetary health, providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health and how to apply data-driven insights to effect positive change.

Introduction to Social Determinants of Health

This first course introduces learners to the foundational aspects of social determinants of health, including theoretical perspectives and definitions. It sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter, paving the way for a multidimensional understanding of the impact of social determinants on health outcomes.

Social Determinants of Health: Vulnerable Populations

Course 2 focuses on how social determinants of health affect vulnerable populations, delving into the impact on groups such as those living in poverty, women, gender and LGBTQI+ individuals, and families. Learners will gain insights into the unique challenges faced by these groups and the implications for public health.

Social Determinants of Health: Health Care Systems

This course explores the intricate relationship between social determinants of health and health care systems. It examines the impact on mental health, substance abuse, and trauma, while also addressing the ethical considerations for health systems and data. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of how these factors intersect and influence health outcomes.

Social Determinants of Health: Methodological Opportunities

Course 4 delves into methodological approaches and research tools that inform best practices in working with science teams, communities, and data. It equips learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively analyze and interpret data related to social determinants of health, fostering a data-informed approach to addressing public health challenges.

Social Determinants of Health: Planetary Health

The final course centers on planetary health as a fundamental determinant of human health. Learners will explore the interdependence between human health and the health of Earth’s natural systems and learn how to apply futures thinking and foresight principles to planetary health initiatives.

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