TABLE 1.

Recommendations on Applying Social Epidemiology in Practice

Readers

Identify the stated or implied theoretical framework(s)

Identify the level of influence on which the manuscript focuses (e.g., individual, community, multi-level, etc.)

Consider the hypothesis and hypothesized mechanisms, including connection with the theoretical framework

Assess inclusion and reporting of demographics and social factors, such as race, ethnicity, measures of socioeconomic position

Interpret the generalizability of the study findings in terms of the included participants and the community or populations represented

Consider how social and contextual factors (e.g., segregation, racism) were measured or, if not included, their lack of inclusion identified as limitations

Identify the implications and action-oriented steps learned or recommended by the study findings

Researchers

Select a guiding theory and/or framework(s) that guides variable selection, hypothesis generation, including hypothesized mechanisms, and analyses

Select level of outcomes on which to focus and/or multiple levels

Identify appropriate and theory-driven measures to include in data collection and/or analyses

Collect and report race, ethnicity, additional demographic and social constructs

Employ person-first language throughout documentation and reporting

Incorporate measures of socioeconomic position with the goal of including multiple aspects of socioeconomic position

Accurately use the terms socioeconomic status versus position with a preference for position

Ensure using race and ethnicity as a social construct and clearly identify why and how the construct is being employed

Seek out cross-disciplinary collaborators early in the research process and involve throughout the process

Clinicians & Educators

Consider available data in the electronic health record regarding demographic and social factors, including potential limitations

Learn about the historical and social context of the institution and communities within which you provide care

Learn about racism, its various forms, and existing literature related to health and public health

Reflect upon institutional and structural barriers to care as well as those embedded within the educational system

Monitor care outcomes by demographic and social factors to identify potential disparities and inform the need for targeted interventions

Review practice and educational environment and processes for increasing access and fostering inclusion and belonging