Addressing Social Determinants of Health During the Pandemic

The population health team at LifeBridge Health recognized early on the disproportionate impact that COVID-19 would have on vulnerable populations in Greater Baltimore. The team quickly mobilized outreach to people with limited access to health care and programs addressing social needs. LifeBridge Health operates several medical facilities, including Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Carroll Hospital in Westminster and Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital.

Multiple modes were put into place so high-risk seniors and families could receive medications they need from local pharmacies and have access to healthy meals and COVID-19 testing. The outreach team connected families that did not have access to computers for telehealth services or online learning with local organizations that could help.

“Our population health teams have always recognized that socioeconomic disparities lead to health disparities and are deeply committed to improving health outcomes by assessing and addressing social determinants of health,” said Susan Mani, M.D., chief population health officer. “With this pandemic, the impact on our most vulnerable communities in terms of increased morbidity and mortality has been made clear, and our outreach in our communities continues to evolve to meet this ever-increasing need.”