Researchers have found evidence that a person’s social life affects their health more than almost any other major risk factor. However, this research comes with limitations because the data researchers have been working with includes few details beyond general demographics, Dr. Abnousi said at the Manova Summit in Minneapolis on Oct. 10.
Although Dr. Abnousi advocated for large-scale access to data on patients’ social and behavioral characteristics, he did not specifically call for using Facebook or Instagram user data, according to CNBC.
“The primary driver of health outcomes in the United States are social and behavioral variables,” he said. “Really understanding what these social determinants of health are should be our primary area of focus.”
More articles on health IT:
Allscripts to add PDMP access to all EHR systems
National Health IT Week is Oct. 8-12: 5 things to know
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.