J Holist Nurs. 2016 Sep;34(3):236-43. doi: 10.1177/0898010115605231. Epub 2015 Sep 17.

Exploring the Influence of Social Determinants, Social Capital, and Health Expertise on Health and the Rural Church.

Journal of holistic nursing : official journal of the American Holistic Nurses' Association

Robyn Plunkett, Beverly Leipert, Joanne Olson

PMID: 26385751 DOI: 10.1177/0898010115605231

Abstract

In rural communities, religious places can significantly shape health for individuals, families, and communities. Rural churches are prominent community centers in rural communities and are deeply woven into rural culture. Thus, health influences arising from the rural church likely have health implications for the greater community. This article explores health influences emerging from rural churches using social determinants of health, social capital, and health expertise. Although nurses are important health resources for all populations, their value in rural areas may be exceedingly significant. The contribution of nurses to church-based health capital in rural communities may be quite significant and underestimated, although it remains poorly understood.

© The Author(s) 2015.

Keywords: health promotion/disease prevention; older adults; religiosity; spirituality; women

MeSH terms

• Community Networks / organization & administration
• Health Literacy / standards
• Humans
• Religion*
• Rural Population*
• Social Capital*
• Social Determinants of Health

Publication Types

• Journal Article