Understanding Social Drivers of Health – and How NEW Health Is Here to Help

At NEW Health, we know that health is about more than just doctor visits and prescriptions. It’s about the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, and grow older. These environments—known as Social Drivers of Health (SDOH) or Social Determinants of Health—shape a wide range of health outcomes.

From access to nutritious food and safe housing to reliable transportation and quality education, these non-medical factors play a powerful role in each person’s health and well-being.

What Are the Social Drivers of Health?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) groups SDOH into five key domains:

1. Economic Stability
   – Access to job opportunities, livable wages, and affordable housing.
2. Education Access and Quality
   – Early childhood education, literacy levels, and pathways to higher education.
3. Health Care Access and Quality
   – Ability to get timely, affordable care—including primary care, mental health services, and medications.
4. Neighborhood and Built Environment
   – Safe housing, clean air and water, transportation access, and neighborhood safety.
5. Social and Community Context
   – Social support networks, community engagement, discrimination, and exposure to violence.

These factors influence everything from how often someone visits the doctor to how long they live.

Poverty and Health in Our Communities

Poverty remains one of the biggest barriers to health—impacting access to food, housing, education, and even basic care. Did you know:

• 12.9% of people in Stevens County lives in poverty
• 13.6% in Pend Oreille County
• 15.6% in Ferry County

That means thousands of our neighbors may be struggling with everyday needs that directly affect their health.

How NEW Health’s Patient Navigators Make a Difference

That’s where NEW Health’s Patient Navigators come in. Our navigators help patients overcome Social Drivers of Health barriers by connecting them to critical community resources and support services.

Whether it’s:

• Finding safe and stable housing
• Applying for transportation assistance
• Enrolling in insurance or benefit programs
• Accessing affordable food
• Understanding medical bills
• Or simply navigating a complex healthcare system—

Our team is here to walk alongside each patient, providing personalized help to address the social drivers that affect their care.

We Believe in Community-Connected Care

At NEW Health, we’re committed to caring for the whole person—not just their symptoms. That means looking beyond the exam room to understand what’s really shaping someone’s health.

Raising awareness about Social Drivers of Health is a step toward a healthier, more equitable community—and we’re proud to be part of that journey.

Need support?
To get started with our Patient Navigator service, simply call us at: 509.935.6004 or 800.829.6583, option #5 or ask your NEW Health care team about speaking with a Patient Navigator today.

We’re here for you—and here for all.