MDHHS recognizes Social Determinants of Health Month in January

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is bringing partners together from across the state in recognition of Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Month this January.

Throughout the month, MDHHS is encouraging community partners and advocates in health and social equity to use the hashtag #MISDOHMonth2025 when they host events, webinars or awareness activities to promote health equity and SDOH work across Michigan to show support.

“As we recognize Social Determinants of Health Month, it’s a good time to acknowledge the vital role each of us plays in creating a healthier, more equitable Michigan,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “The department remains committed to fostering partnerships and promoting health equity across the state. Addressing the social factors that shape health outcomes is critical to eliminating health disparities and ensuring all residents have the opportunity to thrive.”

Social Determinants of Health include a range of factors like income, education, job security, food security, housing and more that play a pivotal role in shaping the health and well-being of individuals and communities. Disparities in SDOH unfairly disadvantage some individuals and contribute to persistent and preventable health inequities. MDHHS promotes the health, safety and stability of all residents by providing services and administering programs and policies that positively improve SDOH.

Phase III of Michigan’s Roadmap to Healthy Communities remains underway, driving progress on key initiatives such as the SDOH Hubs, efforts to close the health disparities gap and Health in All Policies. These initiatives continue to support community-led solutions and promote health equity across the state.

The annual MDOH Summit serves as a springboard to launch next steps for the SDOH Strategy. This year, 2025, will be a dedicated evaluation year to assess the impact of current efforts and initiatives, and identify opportunities for further growth and improvement. Results and findings will be presented at the 2026 Summit, slated for June 2026, which will connect State of Michigan agencies and community partners to address important topics focused on SDOH initiatives.

To help promote SDOH Month, a toolkit is available online with resources including graphics, suggested social media posts, talking points and ideas to help get people involved.

Please share and email MDHHS-SDOH-PolicyandPlanning@Michigan.gov about local efforts to address SDOH in your community, and also share those efforts on social media using the hashtag #MISDOHMonth2025 to inspire others to show support for this important work.

To stay updated on SDOH efforts in Michigan, sign up for the SDOH newsletter or visit Michigan.gov/SDOH.

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