Bridging the Gap: Addressing Social Determinants of Health to Decrease Disparities in Dermatology

In a presentation focused on social determinants of health within dermatology, a dermatologist shared a case of a 48-year-old Somali woman with severe skin conditions. She had limited access to healthcare due to transportation issues and minimal health literacy, primarily depending on her partner for communication. Diagnosed with congenital ichthyosis, the patient's primary concern was her desire to have a baby, rather than addressing her complex medical needs, illustrating a disconnect between patient and provider priorities. Transportation barriers significantly impacted her ability to attend appointments and access specialists, with statistics showing millions of Americans miss or delay care due to transportation challenges. The presenter highlighted the importance of cultural competency in healthcare and the need for effective communication, especially for patients with limited English proficiency, noting that language discordance negatively affects health outcomes. Furthermore, the presentation discussed resources available at Harborview, including a community care program that integrates interpreters and healthcare providers, aimed at bridging gaps in access to care. The case exemplified how social determinants and patient-centered approaches can impact dermatological care and emphasize the necessity of coordinated health support.