Jessica Schubel, special assistant to the President for Health Care at the Domestic Policy Council, will deliver the opening keynote address at the third annual Social Determinants of Health Policy Forum from December 2-4, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Her address, scheduled for December 3, will focus on the future of SDoH policy in federal programs, discussing initiatives, challenges, and opportunities for creating more equitable health outcomes. Schubel is expected to detail current federal efforts to integrate SDoH into health care policy, recent policy developments, and future directions in federal health programs, while also addressing collaborative efforts between federal agencies, state and local governments, and community organizations.
The forum, organized by RISE and Aligning for Health, aims to bring together leading policymakers and cross-sector practitioners to identify opportunities and advance policies that support stronger communities, better health, and solutions to address health and social needs. The event will feature presentations from key organizations including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, members of Congress, health plans, and community-based organizations. This year's event introduces a new preconference workshop on December 2, focusing on policy principles and the current landscape of SDoH and health equity, covering terminology, interactions between government levels, funding streams, and legislative efforts.
The participation of a high-level White House official underscores the growing recognition of social determinants of health as a critical component of national health policy. This attention at the federal level could potentially lead to more comprehensive and integrated approaches to addressing health disparities and improving population health. The forum addresses critical issues at the intersection of health and social welfare, recognizing that factors such as housing, education, and economic stability play crucial roles in overall health and well-being. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the event aims to foster collaboration and drive policy changes that can significantly impact public health outcomes.
For health care professionals, policymakers, and organizations working in related fields, this forum presents a unique opportunity to gain insights into the latest policy developments and to contribute to shaping future initiatives. The discussions and collaborations arising from this event could influence the direction of health care policy and practice for years to come. As the health care landscape continues to evolve, events like the Social Determinants of Health Policy Forum play a crucial role in aligning efforts across various sectors to address complex health challenges. By focusing on the social and environmental factors that influence health, this forum contributes to a more holistic and equitable approach to health care delivery and policy-making in the United States. More information about the event can be found at https://www.risehealth.org and https://www.aligningforhealth.org.
