A person’s genetic code is something they are born with. Expression of individual genes, however, can be affected by environmental factors that cause epigenetic changes that effect the way, or even if, these genes are expressed. Many of these environmental factors are social determinants of health (SDOH). Epigenetic changes are reversible. In EMS we have access to patient’s homes and can often see the SDOH at play in the home and therefore can screen very easily. Can we as EMS with our access to patient’s homes screen for social determinants of health, direct resources to the patients, and make real lasting health change at a genetic level in our patients? In this lecture a physician and a biostatician/genetics researcher will review SDOH, their effects on patients down to the genetic level, and the literature regarding SDOH resolution and lasting improved patient health status.

Target Audience: physicians and other clinicians who are looking for innovative ways to affect real change on the health or their patients and clients.

Learning Objectives:
-Define SDOH and provide examples of their impact on individual health.
-Explain the concept of epigenetics and how environmental factors can influence gene expression.
-Understand the role of EMS providers in identifying and addressing SDOH.
-Analyze the epigenetic effects of resolution of SDOH

More Details/Promo:

https://doctorsonsocialmedia.com/ems-first-responders-to-genetic-change/