The community health impasse: What can family physicians learn about integration of social determinants of health from the challenges, diversity, and worldview of primary healthcare practices located in Southern India?

Abstract

As social position rises, health improves. Alma Ata set the stage for community-oriented primary care (COPC), and family medicine is perfectly positioned to integrate Social Determinants of Health. India presents a unique environment for innovations in family medicine. This study aimed to (1) assess the ability of different primary care practices to address the social determinants of health (SDoH); (2) identify key obstacles and supports; and (3) provide practical insights to family physicians and other primary care providers (PCPs) for the integration of SDoH and clinical primary care. A diverse sample of primary healthcare practices were selected in southern India for investigation. Data collection involved observation and informal interviews. The researchers used general observation and informal interviews to collect data. Investigators used a basic interview guide to structure conversations and formal journal entries were recorded immediately following each visit. Thematic analysis was conducted with NVIVO software to categorize major themes. Seventeen primary healthcare practices were observed; eleven were formally enrolled for interviews. Four inputs and three outputs of socially oriented primary care practices were identified. The inputs include leadership style, appropriate staffing, funding structures, and patient panels. Social interventions, community contact, and treasuring community empowerment were the major outputs. Community health lies at the heart of strengthening primary healthcare. Establishing practices that bridge the gap between clinical primary care and SDoH initiatives need to be prioritized. This study fosters agency for family physicians and PCPs to engage with local communities and lead the path toward this integration.