Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) at Sparks
Project Description:
Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) are environmental conditions that affect several physical, developmental, and well-being outcomes across the life course
(Health & Human Service, 2023). Extensive research suggests SDoH are related to many long-term developmental, physical health, and mental health outcomes for
adult populations, with increasing research among pediatric populations demonstrating the same. As such pediatric providers have argued the need and benefit of
including SDoH evaluation and intervention as an important but frequently underutilized patient-centered practice (e.g., Beck et al., 2018). Despite the recognized
value and promotion of SDoH assessment by professional and practice groups (e.g., American Academy of Pediatrics-Bright Futures; CDC; Healthy People 2030),
the adoption of screening and intervention practices in clinical, pediatric settings has been slow to implement. A pre-pandemic comprehensive review reported a lack
of SDoH screening tools and a number of barriers to implementing screening tools, including limited clinic time and resource knowledge (Morone, 2017).
During an initial Sparks visit, the current intake and appointment process emphasizes assessing patients' physical health issues and needs. In our clinics, providers
have recognized several patients and caregivers express other psychosocial support needs. Much research demonstrates relationships between SDoH and patient
health and well-being, and caregiver well-being outcomes are highly associated with long-term patient outcomes in multiple populations (e.g., Fiest et al., 2018).
More information is needed during the initial intake phase to provide better support for patients and caregivers. To address this need and with provider input, a brief
intake form that asks about SDoH and demographic characteristics was implemented. However, further assessment is needed to determine the utility of the
implemented intake form. Therefore, the primary purpose of this project is to refine and evaluate the caregiver SDoH intake survey with the ultimate goal of better
aiding clinic staff in identifying and addressing SDoH related needs.
Core Function(s):
Performing Research or Evaluation, Other Direct/Model Services
Area of Emphasis
Quality Assurance, Education & Early Intervention, Child Care-Related Activities, Health-Related Activities, Employment-Related Activities, Housing-Related Activities, Transportation-Related Activities
Target Audience:
Students/Trainees (long or intermediate trainees), Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN
Unserved or Under-served Populations:
Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English
Primary Target Audience Geographic Descriptor:
State
COVID-19 Related Data:
N/A
