Curated Resources for Bridging Frameworks – A Comparative Reflection on the Determinants of Health in Ontario and British Columbia
Introduction
As a Medical Laboratory Technologist in Ontario, the resources below provide insight into how provincial frameworks shape the social determinants of health (SDoH) and health equity strategies. These references help me understand the structural and practical approaches used in different jurisdictions and how such frameworks can influence patient outcomes, clinical interpretation, and equitable care delivery. Each resource was selected to strengthen my professional knowledge of evidence-based practices and interprofessional collaboration in promoting health equity.
Scholarly References:
1. Comparative SDoH Analysis
Alemu, F. W., et al. (2024). Social determinants of unmet need for primary care: A systematic review. Systematic Reviews, 13, 252. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-024-02647-5
Annotation:
This systematic review examines the impact of social determinants on primary care access, highlighting how unmet needs differ across populations. It provides a scholarly foundation for understanding why Ontario and BC prioritize certain determinants and informs interpretation of population-level laboratory data.
2. Structural Equity in Health
Gore, D., & Kothari, A. (2012). Social determinants of health in Canada: Are healthy living initiatives there yet? International Journal for Equity in Health, 11(1), 41. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-9276-11-41
Annotation:
This peer-reviewed article explores structural and systemic factors influencing health equity in Canada. It contextualizes provincial approaches to equity and guides MLTs in understanding how policies may affect diagnostic patterns and service accessibility.
Government and Policy Resources:
1. Cultural Safety in BC
Government of British Columbia. (2022). Cultural Safety & Humility Standard (HSO 75000:2022). Province of British Columbia. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/technology-innovation/standards/cultural-safety
Annotation:
This official standard outlines mandatory cultural safety and humility practices in BC. It demonstrates how structural mandates can embed equity into healthcare governance, providing MLTs with context on the systemic expectations for culturally safe care.
2. BC Social Determinants of Health Standard
Government of British Columbia. (2024, September 4). B.C. Social Determinants of Health Value Set. Province of British Columbia. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/health-information-standards/standards-catalogue/bc-social-determinants-of-health-standards
Annotation:
This resource standardizes data collection on SDoH, including housing, education, and Indigenous identity. It helps health professionals understand how BC integrates equity into data systems to inform population health planning and clinical decision-making.
3. National SDoH Guidance
Government of Canada. (2023). Social determinants of health and health inequalities. Public Health Agency of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/population-health/what-determines-health.html
Annotation:
The Public Health Agency of Canada provides a national framework for SDoH, offering context for provincial strategies. This resource allows MLTs to connect local practices to broader policy initiatives and public health priorities.
4. Ontario Public Health Standards
Government of Ontario. (2021). Ontario public health standards 2021. Ontario Ministry of Health. https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/oph_standards/docs/ophs_2021.pdf
Annotation:
These standards define expectations for public health programs in Ontario, emphasizing health equity and prevention. They serve as a practical guide for frontline implementation and help laboratory professionals understand the policy context influencing diagnostic services.
5. Ontario Health Equity Tools
Jumah, R., et al. (2023). Indigenous Lens Tool: Aligning health equity frameworks with Indigenous perspectives. Ontario Health. https://www.ontariohealth.ca
Annotation:
The Indigenous Lens Tool supports organizations in anticipating and mitigating potential inequities in healthcare delivery. It guides evidence-based practice and helps MLTs interpret lab results with attention to equity considerations.
6. Health Equity Impact Assessment (HEIA)
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. (2012). Health equity impact assessment (HEIA) tool. Ontario Ministry of Health. https://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/heia/
Annotation:
The HEIA provides a structured approach to assess the impact of policies and programs on health equity. It is crucial for understanding how practical implementation in Ontario shapes outcomes for diverse populations.
7. Ontario Health Equity Guidelines
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. (2018). Health equity guideline. Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. https://www.health.gov.on.ca
Annotation:
This guideline emphasizes equity as a cross-cutting requirement for all public health initiatives. It helps laboratory professionals contextualize data and understand how health equity considerations are embedded into program planning.
8. Ontario Health SDoH Framework
Ontario Health. (2025). Ontario Health Social Determinants of Health Framework & Resource Guide. Ontario Health. https://www.ontariohealth.ca
Annotation:
This resource provides actionable tools for implementing equity-focused practices in Ontario. It informs MLTs on how provincial frameworks support data-driven interventions and promote equitable patient care.
Summary:
These resources collectively provide a detailed overview of how Ontario and BC operationalize the social determinants of health and equity. By understanding both structural and actionable strategies, MLTs can better contextualize diagnostic results, contribute to interprofessional equity efforts, and apply culturally informed practices to support diverse populations across provinces.