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Social Needs Screening in Hospitalized Pediatric Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Michelle A Lopez1,2, Xian Yu3, Rebecca Hetrick4
1Departments of Pediatrics.
Hospital Pediatrics
|January 3, 2023
Summary
Hospital screening for social needs in pediatric patients identified many risks, but did not significantly increase resource enrollment for families. Further research is needed to effectively address identified social determinants of health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Health Equity
- Social Determinants of Health
Background:
- Addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) is crucial for improving child health outcomes and health equity.
- Systematic screening and referral for social needs in hospitalized pediatric patients were evaluated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a social needs intervention increases family enrollment in publicly available resources.
- To assess the feasibility and impact of screening and referral for social needs in pediatric hospital settings.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted at a large urban children's hospital.
- The WE CARE Houston intervention involved screening and resource referrals for caregivers of pediatric patients (0-36 months).
- Enrollment in resources at 6 months post-discharge was the primary outcome; multivariable analysis was performed.
Main Results:
- 85% of 413 participants had at least one social risk, with employment, health insurance, and mental health being prevalent needs.
- Caregivers showed highest receptiveness to resources for childcare, mental health, health insurance, and primary care.
- No significant difference in new resource enrollment was observed between the intervention and control groups.
Conclusions:
- Hospital-based screening for social needs is feasible and identifies significant social risks in families of pediatric patients.
- While screening is effective in identifying needs, further strategies are required to ensure successful resource utilization and address social determinants of health.
