Solving the complex challenges within our health-care system requires more than policy changes or technological advancements—it demands a deeper understanding of the social barriers individuals face. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. The key to improving health outcomes lies in addressing the social determinants of health (SDoH) that shape a person’s well-being. Tackling these challenges requires a multi-sector approach, fostering collaboration among health-care providers, government agencies, the private sector, nonprofits, and community organizations to create sustainable solutions.

Research shows that up to 60 percent of health outcomes are determined by a person’s zip code rather than genetics. This stark reality underscores the need to shift our approach—rather than simply treating chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, we must ask why individuals develop these conditions and work backward to address the root causes. No single entity—whether health-care systems, government, or social service organizations—can tackle these challenges alone.

Food insecurity is one of the most pressing yet overlooked social determinants of health.

The traditional health-care system has long focused on diagnosing and treating illnesses, yet factors such as food insecurity, transportation, housing, education, and utilities play a crucial role in health. Research indicates that these non-medical factors account for 30 percent to 55 percent of health outcomes, highlighting the need for partnerships between health care and the private sector, nonprofits, and community-based organizations to improve overall well-being.

Historically, member engagement has been a major challenge in health care. Many people are unaware of the resources available to improve their health. No one wants to develop type 2 diabetes or receive a cancer diagnosis, but without access to the right tools and information, they may struggle to access care. The challenge is twofold: ensuring individuals are aware of benefits and ensuring health plans provide customized solutions that meet diverse needs.

Community organizations and nonprofits play a vital role in bridging this gap. Embedded in the communities they serve, they act as trusted intermediaries between health-care providers and populations with the greatest needs. By working together, health-care organizations can extend their reach beyond clinical settings, ensuring that solutions are both accessible and effective.

Food insecurity is one of the most pressing yet overlooked social determinants of health, traditionally addressed by the US Department of Agriculture and social service organizations. Recently, health plans have recognized food’s power as an engagement tool, helping drive member participation and improve health outcomes. When effectively integrated, food as engagement connects individuals with their health plans and essential benefits while closing critical care gaps, ensuring meaningful member engagement. While people want to eat healthily and live a healthy lifestyle, many face barriers such as cost, access, and a lack of education, especially when managing chronic diseases.

Addressing food insecurity requires more than just providing meals—it demands education, accessibility, and integration into health-care systems. Teaching individuals how to eat for better health, particularly when managing chronic conditions, is crucial.

To create a flourishing future for all, we must foster collaboration across sectors—including health care, government, technology, and community organizations—to dismantle systemic barriers to care. Health-care providers must partner with nonprofits to extend care beyond hospitals and clinics, while government agencies must craft policies that support, rather than hinder, community-based initiatives. The private sector must play an active role, bringing innovative, fast-moving solutions to the table. Local organizations, deeply embedded in the communities they serve, must be equipped with the funding and resources needed to sustain and expand their outreach. Additionally, the investment sector must play a greater role in funding innovative companies that develop scalable solutions to these challenges. Financial support is critical for advancing new health-care models, technology-driven solutions, and initiatives designed to address SDoH effectively.

Cross-sector collaboration allows health-care systems to leverage data more effectively—anticipating needs, integrating social services, and providing support beyond clinical care. Health care must be proactive and preventive, and aligned with real-world challenges, with social determinants of health at the core of better outcomes.

By uniting health-care providers, government agencies, the private sector, nonprofits, and community organizations, we move beyond treating illness to fostering long-term well-being for all. Together, we don’t just treat symptoms—we create healthier communities and a stronger, more sustainable health-care system for future generations.