Family physicians are critical in addressing social determinants of health (SDOH), improving patient outcomes, and optimizing healthcare utilization. This systematic review aimed to explore current literature evidence on their contributions to addressing SDOH and their impact on patient health outcomes and healthcare utilization. This systematic review followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Electronic databases were searched for studies published between the years 2014 and 2024. Inclusion criteria focused on studies examining family physicians’ roles in addressing SDOH and their effects on patient health outcomes and healthcare utilization. Data were extracted and synthesized thematically, with methodological quality assessed using validated tools. Fourteen studies were included, demonstrating that family physicians significantly address SDOH through interdisciplinary collaboration, community engagement, and comprehensive care models. Their involvement was associated with reduced hospitalizations, improved health-related quality of life, and enhanced patient satisfaction. Family medicine (FM) models, particularly in community health centers, improved healthcare utilization patterns by increasing follow-up visits and reducing emergency department use. Preventive care efforts, including screenings for hypertension and tobacco use, were prioritized but constrained by time and resource limitations. Family physicians are pivotal in integrating SDOH into primary care, improving equity, and reducing healthcare costs. Expanding FM models, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and addressing barriers such as resource constraints can enhance their impact. Future research should focus on underrepresented populations and develop standardized frameworks to evaluate their contributions comprehensively.
Key words: Family physicians, social determinants of health, patient outcomes, healthcare utilization, systemic review
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