The definition of the social determinants of health is nonmedical factors that i

The definition of the social determinants of health is nonmedical factors that influence health outcomes (CDC, 2022). Some examples of these factors include economic stability, education access and quality, healthcare access and quality, neighborhood and built environment, and community context. That said, digital inclusion and broadband should be added to the social determinants of health. Digital inclusion and broadband can influence health outcomes by accessing and using electronic health records, mobile health, patient portals, and Telemedicine. Electronic health records include essential patient information that can be shared between providers and facilities within minutes. This can lead to better patient outcomes by limiting the number of duplicate tests being performed, preventing further delays in care, and reducing the number of medical errors made (CMS, 2023). Many mobile health applications can increase patient engagement and help patients monitor or prevent chronic conditions. Examples of some of these mobile applications include HealthTap, Pocket Pharmacist, Teladoc, Medisafe Pill Minder, Apple Health, PEPID, Head Space, Sleep Cycle, Fooducate, and MySugr. These applications listed above can help one contact a provider, know how to treat an illness based on current signs and symptoms, help locate needed specialists, make sure medication is taken as prescribed, help with mental health disorders, provide education on food and nutrition, assist with glucose management, and monitor sleep and exercise patterns. These applications can be beneficial to all patient populations. The use of Telehealth has been on the rise since the pandemic. It is still something that many individuals are taking advantage of because it is convenient, helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases, can make it easier to see a provider, and can help loop in family members (Hasselfield, n.d.). With Telehealth, people do not have to leave work, leave their beds, arrange for childcare, or whatever the situation might be because these appointments can be held anywhere. People are less exposed to other illnesses than at the clinic, which can be great for those who are elderly, immunocompromised, or pregnant. For people whose family members want to be involved but are not physically within the area, Telehealth can allow these family members to join the appointment. These are all applications that require some technological device and high-speed internet connections to gain benefits from, and this is why these factors should be included in the social determinants of health.