Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health: Management Strategies for Addressing Disparities in Canadian Healthcare Organizations
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Health equity has emerged as a fundamental concern for healthcare leaders across Canada. Health equity is defined as the principle that every individual should have a fair opportunity to achieve optimal health and access to healthcare services, regardless of social, economic, or demographic circumstances. Despite universal healthcare coverage, health inequities continue to affect racialized populations, Indigenous communities, and individuals facing socioeconomic disadvantages. This paper examines how healthcare managers can effectively integrate the social determinants of health into organizational strategy and community partnerships to reduce health disparities in Canadian healthcare settings. Through comprehensive literature review and case study analysis, the study identifies key organizational strategies including socio-demographic data collection, Health Equity Impact Assessments, equity-based budgeting, inclusive workforce recruitment, cultural safety training, and hospital-based social support programs. Intersectoral partnerships including social prescribing, medical-legal partnerships, and housing-first approaches are examined for their effectiveness in addressing social needs beyond clinical care. Canadian case studies from Manitoba, Ontario Health, and Hamilton Health Sciences illustrate the practical application of these approaches. Recommendations emphasize data-informed planning, workforce development, intersectoral collaboration, and community engagement as essential elements for embedding equity into healthcare organizations (Pirouzi, 2026). Keywords: health equity, social determinants of health, healthcare disparities, Canadian healthcare, organizational strategy, intersectoral partnerships
Institution: Seneca Polytechnic
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7147393347