Social Determinants of Health are the social, economic, and environmental factors that impact health and contribute to health disparities. For Black Americans, several SDOHs disproportionately affect health outcomes. These include economic status, education access, healthcare access, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community contexts.

In honor of Black History Month, we at the Vermont Health Equity Initiative (VHEI) are committed to acknowledging the ongoing struggles of the Black community and working towards creating a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system.

Poverty is a social determinant of health (SDOH) that can significantly impact the health and well-being of BIPOC communities. Poverty can lead to social and economic disadvantages that can hold BIPOC communities back and cause barriers to success. If you are living in poverty in Vermont and seeking support and resources, we encourage you to explore these resources.