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A Standardized Protocol for Assessing and Addressing Social Determinants of Health
Mary D Chenge1, Dianne Conrad2
1College of Nursing, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan (Dr Chenge).
Journal of Nursing Care Quality
|March 3, 2026
Summary
Implementing a standardized social determinants of health (SDOH) protocol improves patient care and reduces costs. This structured approach enhances screenings, referrals, and reimbursements for healthcare organizations.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Public Health Initiatives
- Clinical Process Improvement
Background:
- Addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) is critical for enhancing patient outcomes and lowering healthcare expenditures.
- Many healthcare organizations struggle with standardized processes for identifying and managing patients' social needs, despite the availability of SDOH screening tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a structured protocol for increasing social determinants of health (SDOH) screenings.
- To improve the process of social work referrals and associated reimbursement within a healthcare setting.
Main Methods:
- A quality improvement project utilized the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework for protocol implementation.
- Key steps included an organizational assessment, selection of an evidence-based screening tool, and protocol development.
Main Results:
- The study demonstrated improvements in the rates of SDOH screenings conducted.
- Referrals to social work services and reimbursements for billable screenings saw a notable increase following protocol implementation.
Conclusions:
- A standardized social determinants of health (SDOH) protocol can lead to better patient outcomes and fewer unnecessary healthcare visits.
- Implementing such protocols can enhance organizational revenue through increased reimbursements, though ongoing evaluation is recommended.
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