Social Determinants of Health (SDH) and Community Based Organizations (CBOs)

Social determinants of health (SDH) are defined as the conditions in which people are born, live, grow, work, and age. These conditions can affect a wide range of health risks and outcomes. The five key domains of SDH include economic stability, education, social and community context, health and health care, and neighborhood and built environment. Health related social needs (HRSN) are an individual's unmet, adverse social conditions that contribute to poor health. These needs, including food insecurity, housing instability, unemployment, lack of education, lack of access to transportation, stress and social isolation, can drive health disparities and increase health care spending.

The purpose of this page is to provide information about SDH and HRSN initiatives as it relates to the New York State Medicaid program. The Bureau's goal is to support health systems and community-based organizations in integrating health and human services to improve health outcomes. Please feel free to contact the Bureau of Social Care and Community Supports at SDH@health.ny.gov with any questions.

Additional Resources

Office of Health Equity and Human Rights

New York 1115 Medicaid Waiver Information Page

Community Health Worker Services for Pregnant and Postpartum People

Reimbursement for Adverse Childhood Experiences Screening

Medical Nutritional Therapy Services Provided by Qualified Dietitians/Nutritionists

Maternal Health Benefit Expansion

New York State Medicaid Doula Services Benefit

NYS Medicaid Coverage of Telehealth

Cultural Competency Training for Participating Providers Notice