Integration of the Safe Environment for Every Kid (SEEK) Model Across Primary Care Settings

Area of Science:

• Child Maltreatment Prevention
• Primary Care Interventions
• Psychosocial Risk Factors

Background:

• Child maltreatment poses significant public health challenges.
• Primary care settings offer opportunities for early identification and intervention.
• Addressing psychosocial risk factors is crucial for preventing maltreatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the generalizability of the Safe Environment for Every Kid (SEEK) model.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to SEEK model implementation in diverse primary care settings.
• To assess the effectiveness of SEEK in addressing psychosocial risk factors for maltreatment.

Main Methods:

• The Safe Environment for Every Kid (SEEK) model was implemented across pediatric, federally qualified health center, and family medicine practices.
• Caregivers were screened for psychosocial risk factors during well-child visits (ages 0-5 years).
• Screening data, intervention rates, and provider feedback were collected.

Main Results:

• Successful SEEK implementation was observed across all practice types, with high screening (75%-93%) and intervention (61%-81%) completion rates.
• Parental stress (14%) and food insecurity (11%) were the most prevalent risk factors identified.
• Providers reported improved knowledge and skills in addressing psychosocial concerns and providing whole-person care.

Conclusions:

• The SEEK model is generalizable and effectively implemented in various primary care settings.
• Key barriers included time constraints and resource limitations, while on-site support staff facilitated implementation.
• The SEEK model enhances providers' capacity to address psychosocial issues and promote child well-being.