Life in ACEs: An Interactive Experience to Teach About Social Determinants of Health-View Recording

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Video Summary

In this interactive workshop, led by Paul Rosenfield and colleagues, participants explored the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and social determinants of health through a game called "Life in ACES." This experience highlighted how factors beyond individual control, such as childhood trauma and environmental influences, shape health outcomes. The workshop aimed to enhance understanding and empathy towards patients’ challenges by demonstrating how ACEs affect psychological and physical health.<br /><br />The session involved participants taking on roles with varying levels of ACEs and navigating life paths influenced by factors like access to healthcare, education quality, and social support systems. Engaging with these scenarios illuminated the precariousness of success and the significant role social determinants play outside the clinical setting. Participants discussed systemic changes like improving public education and housing and acknowledged the necessity of widespread societal and policy interventions to reduce inequities.<br /><br />Furthermore, despite the feeling of helplessness in combating broader systemic issues, the session emphasized the importance of early intervention and supportive care. Providers were encouraged to recognize the significant impact of even small positive changes and to continue their advocacy for fairer policies that address social disparities. The dialogue underscored the vital role healthcare professionals play in both treatment and systemic advocacy for vulnerable populations.

Keywords

Adverse Childhood Experiences

social determinants of health

Life in ACES

childhood trauma

health outcomes

systemic changes

policy interventions

early intervention

healthcare advocacy