Skip navigation

A conceptual system dynamics model of social determinants of health (SDoH) and its impact on population health

A conceptual system dynamics model of social determinants of health (SDoH) and its impact on population health

Ansah, John P., Salazar, Robinson and Elamin, Amal ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4078-2049 (2025) A conceptual system dynamics model of social determinants of health (SDoH) and its impact on population health. Journal of Public Health Research, 14 (2). pp. 1-12. ISSN 2279-9036 (Online) (doi:10.1177/22799036251347035)

[thumbnail of Open Access Article]
Preview
PDF (Open Access Article)
50699 ELAMIN_A_Conceptual_System_Dynamics_Model_Of_Social_Determinants_Of_Health_SDoH_(OA)_2025.pdf - Published Version
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial.

Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract

Background: This paper primarily aims to construct a conceptual model of social determinants of health (SDoH), which will serve as a vital tool for identifying the feedback mechanisms that influence population health outcomes. Additionally, it seeks to simulate both the immediate and long-term effectiveness of proposed SDoH interventions on population health.
Design and methods: We developed a system dynamics model of SDoH based on literature review and insights from community health experts. This model enables us to simulate the effectiveness of proposed interventions on population health, using CVD as a representative example of health outcomes.
Results: The model results highlight a promising approach for enhancing population health. The neighborhood intervention stands out among the various interventions, demonstrating the most significant impact on health compared to other individual interventions. This finding underscores the potential of neighborhood-focused strategies in improving overall population health.
Conclusion: This paper provides a clear explanation and causal framework for why investing in programs that enhance SDoH can improve population health. It introduces a powerful tool such as a causal map of SDoH, enabling policymakers and stakeholders to gain a more profound, dynamic understanding of the relationship between SDoH and health outcomes. This knowledge may help to make informed decisions and implement effective interventions.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: population health, social determinants of health, system dynamics
Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group: Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences
Faculty of Education, Health & Human Sciences > School of Human Sciences (HUM)
Last Modified: 18 Jun 2025 16:29
URI: http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/50699

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

View more statistics