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Social determinants significantly influence health outcomes by shaping various aspects of an individual's life, particularly their access to healthcare. These determinants include factors such as socioeconomic status, education, neighborhood and physical environment, employment, and social support networks.

Access to healthcare is critical for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of health issues. Individuals in higher socioeconomic brackets often have better access to healthcare services, insurance coverage, and resources that support a healthy lifestyle. Conversely, those facing economic hardships may experience barriers such as lack of transportation, inability to take time off work for medical appointments, or lack of access to quality healthcare facilities, which can lead to poorer health outcomes overall.

Furthermore, social determinants also encompass elements like cultural factors and social relationships, which can facilitate or hinder an individual's engagement with healthcare services. Thus, understanding how these social determinants interplay with healthcare access can provide insights into health disparities and guide interventions aimed at improving health outcomes across different populations.