Analyze health risks and health care needs among distinct populations. Describe the determinants of health and the cultural, social, and economic barriers that impact safety, health, and disaster recovery efforts in a community.

A variety of factors can cause health risks and healthcare requirements to vary greatly between different populations. Social, economic, environmental or cultural factors are all possible and can have a significant impact on the health of an individual and a community.

Determinants: These are the factors that affect the health and well-being of people. This includes factors such as access to healthcare, income, education, employment, social support, genetics and other environmental factors. Health determinants can differ greatly between populations and can impact health needs and health risks.

Cultural, Economic, and Social Barriers. Cultural, economic, and social barriers may impact the safety and health of a community and its efforts to recover from disasters. Language barriers, for example, can prevent non-native English speaking individuals from receiving important health information or accessing healthcare services. Social factors, such as homelessness and poverty can hinder individuals from accessing healthcare or paying for medications. Different cultural beliefs regarding healthcare and medicine may affect how people seek out and receive health care services.

Disasters like natural disasters and pandemics may also disproportionately impact vulnerable groups. The populations in question may have additional obstacles to accessing healthcare or they may experience greater health risks because of environmental factors, such as poor housing or pollution.

To analyze the health risks of different populations and their healthcare needs, we must understand cultural, economic, and social barriers which can affect health outcomes. By addressing these barriers, and working towards health equity, we can improve the well-being and health of individuals and groups.