How Social Determinants of Health Define the TBI Journey

Abstract Purpose of Review The goal of this review is to examine how social determinants of health (SDoH)—including socioeconomic status, race, housing, insurance, and access to care—shape the incidence, management, rehabilitation, and long-term outcomes of traumatic brain injury (TBI). We sought to highlight disparities across the TBI care continuum and identify gaps in research and practice. Recent Findings Recent studies demonstrate consistent inequities in TBI outcomes, with racial and ethnic minorities, uninsured individuals, and those from disadvantaged communities experiencing higher injury severity, reduced access to trauma centers, and lower rates of rehabilitation referral. Despite growing recognition of SDoH, demographic data remain underreported, and minoritized populations are underrepresented in clinical trials. Implementation science and tools such as the Area Deprivation Index are increasingly being applied to quantify inequities. Summary SDoH critically influence outcomes following TBI. Incorporating SDoH into clinical records, care pathways, and research design, while expanding culturally competent, trauma-informed approaches, is essential to advancing health equity and improving long-term outcomes.