Universal health-related social needs screening in a paediatric rheumatology clinic

• DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkaf014
• Publication Date: 2025-01-30T20:34:56Z
• Authors: Mia T Chandler; Maria Alfieri Bia...; Anthony Dekermanji; Margaret Taggart; Benjamin G Ethier; Joyce C Chang; Brittany Esty; Mary Beth F Son; Melissa M Hazen

Health-related social needs (HRSN) have a significant impact on health outcomes. While screening is prevalent in paediatric primary care settings, little evidence exists regarding the feasibility of HRSN rheumatology clinics. Individuals with rheumatic disease frequent longitudinal visits, therefore it important to understand that may hinder optimal outcomes this population. The objectives study were burden and contextualize universal busy clinic. team secured funding for full-time worker developed assessment questionnaire (NAQ) through an iterative process. paper-based NAQ was distributed by administrative clinical staff all patients at each in-person visit. Medical providers returned completed NAQs designated collection tray. responses reviewed analysed. addressed positive screens among families who opted contact. More than 1/3 (985/2819), 604/985 (61%) which revealed one or more concerns. most concern school work related. responded phone patient electronic portal message identified unmet needs. A health-related need prevalence HRSN, despite access, shows importance Sustainable needed scale efforts assess address them.