Caregiver Experiences With Inpatient Health-Related Social Needs Screening.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric hospital medicine
• Health equity
• Qualitative research

Background:

• Screening for health-related social needs (HRSN) in pediatric inpatient settings lacks standardized rates and methods.
• Understanding caregiver perspectives is crucial for effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore caregiver experiences and preferences regarding inpatient screening for HRSNs.
• To inform best practices for pediatric HRSN screening.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using semistructured interviews with 14 caregivers of children on a pediatric hospital medicine service.
• Interview guide based on health equity implementation framework.
• Thematic analysis of interview transcripts using a hybrid inductive-deductive approach.

Main Results:

• Caregivers perceive HRSN screening as a sign of hospital care and support.
• Screening logistics are critical: preferred in-person, private sessions with social work staff.
• Ideal screening times are during hospitalization downtime; discharge day is less suitable.

Conclusions:

• Inpatient HRSN screening is well-received and considered important by caregivers.
• Caregiver preferences emphasize privacy, social work involvement, and appropriate timing during admission.