An Introduction to the Social Determinants of Health in Relation to the Northern Territory Indigenous Population

Abstract

This paper re-examines the factors underlying the continuing poor health of the NTs Indigenous population versus the non-Indigenous population. In particular, it focuses on recent research including the well-known Whitehall Studies that demonstrates poorer health outcomes for people with less power/status in their communities/workplaces. The paper concludes that, along with greater availability of primary health care, efforts to raise the socio-economic status of the NTs Indigenous people and allow them increased control over their lives will yield improved health outcomes.