Explain the effects of socio-economic influences on health

Assignment Brief

This paper emphasizes the role of health promotion in health and social care covering different aspects in detail such as effects of socio-economic influences on health, models of health promotion, factors which influence health promotion, health promotion campaign, etc.

Instructions 

The Role of Health Promotion in Health and Social Care

Sample Answer

The Role of Health Promotion in Health and Social Care

LO1: Understand the Socioeconomic Influences on Health

1.1 Effects of Socio-Economic Influences on Health

Socio-economic factors include income, education, employment, housing, and environment. People with low income often struggle to afford healthy food, safe housing, or private healthcare. Poor education may lead to a lack of knowledge about healthy lifestyles. Unemployment can increase stress and mental health issues, while poor housing can cause illnesses like asthma due to damp conditions. All these factors negatively affect people’s physical and mental health.

1.2 Relevance of Government Sources in Reporting Health Inequalities

Government sources like the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Public Health England give important data on health differences among different social groups. These reports help identify where the biggest health problems are and who is most affected. For example, people living in deprived areas often have a lower life expectancy. These sources guide local councils and the NHS in planning support for those most in need.

1.3 Reasons for Barriers to Accessing Healthcare

People may face several barriers to healthcare access, such as:

• Financial barriers: Even in the UK with the NHS, some services like dental care or prescriptions may cost money.

• Geographical barriers: Rural areas may lack nearby hospitals or clinics.

• Language and cultural barriers: People who don’t speak English may struggle to understand health advice.

• Stigma and discrimination: Some may avoid seeking care due to fear of judgment, especially in mental health.

• Lack of awareness: Some people don’t know what services are available or when to use them.

LO2: Understand Models of Health Promotion

2.1 Government Strategies and Models of Health Promotion

There are different models of health promotion, such as:

• Medical model: Focuses on treating illness.

• Behaviour change model: Encourages people to adopt healthier lifestyles (e.g., quit smoking).

• Socio-environmental model: Looks at how social and environmental factors influence health.

Government strategies, like Change4Life and Better Health, use the behaviour change model by promoting exercise, healthy eating, and reducing alcohol use. These campaigns work alongside NHS services to help people take responsibility for their health.

2.2 Role of Professionals in Meeting Government Targets

Health professionals like nurses, GPs, and social workers play a big part in achieving government health goals. For example:

• Nurses run smoking cessation clinics.

• GPs offer health checks and advice on diet or exercise.

• Social workers support vulnerable individuals to access services.

By doing this, they help reduce long-term illnesses like diabetes and heart disease and improve community wellbeing.

2.3 Role of Routines in Promoting Healthy Living

Daily routines, like brushing teeth, eating balanced meals, and regular exercise, help people stay healthy. Encouraging healthy habits from a young age makes it easier for people to maintain them throughout life. For example, schools that include PE, healthy lunches, and lessons about hygiene support children in building positive routines.

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