The Poverty Simulation: A Tool to Experience the Social Determinants of HealthThe Poverty Simulation: A Tool to Experience the Social Determinants of Health

Abstract

To provide holistic care that addresses all aspects of patient needs, nurses must understand the complexities of healthcare for the large population of people who live in poverty. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) as individual income, living conditions, social supports, and access to adequate food sources, education, and healthcare. Eighty percent of a person’s ability to attain health and well-being is related to the SDOH. In the United States, Healthy People 2030 and accrediting bodies for professional nursing programs focus on the SDOH and the impact of these determinants on health equity and access to care. Thus, as nursing students learn about challenges faced by persons who live in poverty conditions, it can be beneficial to also experience what their everyday life entails. One option available is the use of poverty simulation tools. This article provides an overview of the Missouri Community Action Network Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) used in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) curriculum to enhance student understanding about the experiences of living in poverty, to increase their ability to analyze the relationship between the SDOH and poor health outcomes, and to identify potential personal attitudes and biases. We offer information about our experiences with poverty simulation planning, implementation, and evaluation.