Use of digital health tools to promote equitable and efficient health-related social needs screening and response

Unmet health-related social needs (HRSNs), such as food insecurity, housing instability, transportation barriers, and caregiver stress, are associated with increased healthcare utilization and poorer health outcomes. Screening for HRSNs and addressing unmet needs in pediatric healthcare is crucial to improving child health across the life course. As HRSN screening becomes more widespread, digital health tools offer an opportunity to expand equitable screening and resource referral programs. These technologies can improve workflow efficiency, adapt to different clinical settings, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration across healthcare settings. This article reviews the benefits of digital health integration for HRSN screening and resource referrals, the existing tools, and potential expansion utilizing artificial intelligence. Finally, we discuss the importance of trauma-informed digital health approaches that prioritize patient privacy, transparency, and trust.