LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is bringing partners together from across the state in recognition of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) month in January. MDHHS is hosting events throughout the month to highlight statewide efforts and will offer a virtual SDOH Summit Jan. 23-25 and a half day in-person reception Friday, Jan. 26. Throughout the month, local, state and federal partners will highlight efforts to address social factors that impact health. The goal is to improve awareness of current resources for residents, highlight successful community-driven solutions and develop stronger partnerships to support a greater community impact.
“Our continued Social Determinants of Health strategy demonstrates our commitment to making Michigan the best place to live for all, and while we highlight efforts in January, this work takes place year-round,” said Elizabeth Hertel, director. “The goal of the SDOH Summit is to continue improving collaboration between partners and stakeholders across the state who are dedicated to impacting equity and decreasing disparities.” Disparities in SDOH unfairly disadvantage individuals and contribute to persistent and preventable health inequities. MDHHS promotes the health, safety and stability of residents by providing services and administering programs and policies that positively improve SDOH.