COVID-19 and Health Inequalities: The Impact of Social Determinants of Health on Individuals Affected by Poverty

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social and healthcare systems has been profound, resulting in significant economic disruptions and far-reaching consequences for the labour market. It is reasonable to consider that unemployment, loss of income, and poverty can contribute to and result from poor mental and physical health. Therefore, it is important to explore the health difficulties that are not directly caused by the disease (SARS-CoV-2 infection) but instead arise from the social disruptions and restrictions imposed by lockdowns and other measures aimed at controlling the virus’s spread. Social disparities impose significant costs on economic, individual, and societal levels. This study examines the impact of social determinants of health (employment, housing, access to education, and food) on individuals affected by poverty during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tyrol, Austria.

A qualitative research design was employed to explore the individual experiences of the pandemic, poverty, job loss, and precariousness. Biographical narrative and episodic problem-based interviews were used in combination. A total of 153 participants (2021-2022) were recruited using various non-random sampling methods. The data were analyzed through inductive qualitative content analysis to identify relevant thematic complexes resulting from the reconstructions and inductive content analysis.

The main driver of challenges faced by individuals living in poverty is their precarious financial situation. Poverty negatively affects physical and mental health, the quality of food, housing conditions, medication expenses, access to healthcare, to relevant digital resources, and health literacy. Informal social support plays a crucial role for people in poverty, but it diminishes over time, leading to social exclusion. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated poverty-related challenges and intensified social disconnection and marginalization. Addressing poverty requires comprehensive interventions at both the individual and structural levels.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of social determinants of health, including poverty, distress, employment, social participation, and digital exclusion. These factors pose immediate risks to individuals’ health and can contribute to negative long-term health issues. State and institutional support are crucial in preventing and combating poverty, social disparities, health inequalities, and negative health outcomes.

Publication History

Article published online:
05 December 2024