Odgers Berndtson’s Chris Hamilton and Mike Drew, explain why leadership is crucial in advancing technologies that address SDOH
In today’s healthcare landscape, addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) – the conditions in which people live, work, and grow – is crucial to improving health outcomes.
Health tech companies have a unique opportunity to tackle these challenges through innovations like telemedicine, AI-driven health platforms, and data analytics.
However, success in this space hinges on having the right talent.
Health tech companies need to prioritise recruiting leaders with a combination of technical expertise and a deep understanding of the social factors influencing health.
By building leadership teams that combine tech skills with a focus on health equity, they can create solutions that make a real difference in underserved communities.
The role of technology in addressing SDOH
Health technology is increasingly used to tackle SDOH by breaking down traditional barriers.
For example, telemedicine has become a lifeline for people in underserved or remote areas, providing access to care that might otherwise be out of reach.
This improves access to regular medical consultations, reducing disparities for populations that struggle with geographic or transportation challenges.
Remote monitoring tools and wearables enable patients to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease from home, lessening the need for frequent hospital visits and empowering individuals to take control of their health.
These technologies can detect changes in a patient’s condition early, prompting timely interventions that reduce complications and hospitalisations.
Data analytics and AI, on the other hand, play a critical role in identifying SDOH patterns.
By analysing data on factors like income, housing, and education, healthcare providers can predict patient risk and develop targeted interventions that address both medical and social needs.
For example, predictive analytics can flag communities that might be at higher risk for conditions like asthma based on environmental factors, allowing for proactive healthcare measures.
How to identify the right leadership talent to tackle SDOH
Effectively addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) requires innovative technology combined with visionary leadership.
Companies must seek leaders who not only have strong technical or business acumen but also possess a deep understanding of the social factors that impact health.
The ideal candidate for executive roles, such as CEO, CTO, or Chief Medical Officer, should have a blend of expertise in both healthcare and technology, alongside experience in public health or social impact projects.
Leaders who have worked across sectors, such as healthcare systems, non-profits, or government health initiatives, are more likely to grasp the complexities of SDOH and integrate them into the company’s strategy.
When evaluating senior leadership talent, boards should focus on those who have demonstrated a commitment to addressing health equity and social disparities in previous roles.
This might include building inclusive health platforms, leading initiatives that improved access to care for underserved populations, or driving innovation in products that address social factors influencing health.
Proven success in these areas indicates they understand how technology can bridge gaps in health outcomes.
Technology leadership in health tech often requires leveraging data analytics and AI to tackle SDOH.
Look for candidates with strong backgrounds in data science or experience overseeing teams that analyse social health data.
These leaders should demonstrate their ability to integrate SDOH insights into product development, ensuring that the company’s offerings are aligned with the needs of high-risk and underserved populations.
Effective leaders should possess a deep understanding of how social and environmental factors influence user needs.
Candidates for senior product and technology roles should be able to lead teams that create intuitive, accessible products, particularly for users with low digital or health literacy.
These leaders should value empathy in design and have a history of ensuring that products are tailored to diverse populations, improving accessibility and health outcomes.
Above all, leadership candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference in healthcare and addressing social inequities are more likely to drive meaningful change.
During the hiring process, boards should seek individuals who have a clear commitment to advancing health equity and are motivated by the company’s mission to address SDOH through technology.
Their vision and passion will help foster a culture of social responsibility within the organisation.
Visionary leadership is essential
The intersection of health technology and social determinants of health present an exciting yet complex challenge.
The key to success lies not only in the innovative tools and platforms that health tech companies create but also in the leadership that drives these initiatives forward.
By prioritising leaders who combine technical proficiency with a profound understanding of health equity and social impact, companies can develop solutions that truly resonate with underserved populations.
These leaders are not just steering technological advancements; they are championing a broader mission of reducing health disparities and fostering a more inclusive healthcare landscape.
As health tech continues to evolve, visionary leadership will be the cornerstone of efforts to bridge the gap between technology and the social factors that shape health outcomes.
