By Bob Garrett, President & CEO
“For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat…”
Matthew 25:35
From time to time, but not too often, I get the question: “So, why does the Chamber care about the Social Determinants of Health?” My consistent answer has always been and will continue to be: “Prosperity!’ In other words, at the core of our mission is the prosperity of commerce, culture, communities, and citizens.
This week, I’m attending the national Social Determinants of Health conference along with Megan Bair, CEO of the Central Susquehanna Opportunities (CSO); Sandy Winehoffer, of CSO; and Greg Sacavage, Retired Mount Carmel Area School District Dean of Students/Athletic Director and CSO Board Chair. We’re being joined at the conference by Maria Welsh of Geisinger.
The Greater Susquehanna Valley’s SDoH banner is flying high here thanks to presentations and panel discussions that Maria and Megan are giving on our valley’s Mobile Food Bank. Our valley, thanks to the generosity of Geisinger, is leading the nation in battling rural hunger.
To better understand SDoH, I encourage you to consider that health is more than just genetics or personal choices—it’s also shaped by the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. These conditions include factors like education, income, housing, access to healthcare, food security, and social support.
When these determinants are favorable, such as access to quality schools, stable housing, safe neighborhoods, and nutritious food—people are more likely to thrive. However, when these conditions are lacking or inequitable, health outcomes can suffer. For example, individuals living in poverty may face higher rates of chronic illness due to limited healthcare access and increased exposure to environmental hazards.
Addressing the social determinants of health means looking beyond the doctor’s office. It requires cross-sector collaboration—between healthcare providers, community organizations, educators, and policymakers—to create environments where health can flourish for everyone. By investing in social support and equitable opportunities, we can reduce health disparities and improve well-being and prosperity at a community level.
Understanding and acting on the SDOH is essential to building a healthier, more just society—where everyone can live a long, healthy life, regardless of their background or zip code. By working together and embracing SDoH, our best days lie just ahead.
