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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).
Background:
Assessing and addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) is essential to improving patient outcomes and reducing health care costs.
Problem:
Although SDOH screening tools exist, many health care organizations lack a standardized process for assessing and addressing social needs.
Approach:
A structured process was developed to increase SDOH screenings, social work referrals, and reimbursement. This included an organizational assessment, selection of an evidence-based screening tool, protocol development, and implementation using the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework.
Outcomes:
To review the outcomes of implementing a standardized process for addressing SDOH, a quality improvement project at a primary care clinic was reviewed showing improvement in screenings, referrals, and reimbursements for billable screenings.
Conclusion:
Implementing a standardized SDOH protocol can improve patient outcomes, reduce unnecessary health care visits, and increase reimbursements for organizations. Continued evaluation is needed.
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