With this practical guide, those who care for children’s physical and mental health will learn how to identify and address social drivers of health (SDOH), also sometimes referred to as social determinants of health. The expert contributors present evidence-based tools to screen for SDOH, as well as strategies on how to care for children and families affected by different social stressors. This book offers real-world guidance that is easily implemented in a variety of settings. Available for purchase at https://www.aap.org/Social-Drivers-of-Health-Implications-for-Clinical-Practice-Paperback
11: Policy Reform, Movement Toward Universal Social Needs Screening, and Future Directions
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Published:February 2025
Jana C. Leary, MD, MS, Arvin Garg, MD, MPH, FAAP, "Policy Reform, Movement Toward Universal Social Needs Screening, and Future Directions", Social Drivers of Health: Implications for Clinical Practice, American Academy of Pediatrics, Sandra F. Braganza, MD, MPH, FAAP, Kevin P. Fiori, MD, MPH, MS, FAAP
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Pediatric clinicians can make a positive impact on some of the adverse social determinants of health that patients face. At the practice level amid recent policy reforms, we can implement family-centered social needs screening and referral strategies that are tailored to the pediatric setting. We do not need to start from scratch in these efforts; rather, we can leverage available screening tools, referral platforms, and implementation toolkits, as well as forge partnerships with community-based organizations to strengthen the social care we provide to our patients and families. Looking to the future, we can also think creatively about how to use information technology innovations in our screening and referral efforts to improve reach, efficiency, and effectiveness. Ultimately, no matter which approach a clinic or an institution takes to social needs screening and referral, we must strive to do so with an anti-racist lens. We must take the time to explain the universal nature of screening and our intent to understand patients’ lived experiences so we can provide equitable care. If we demonstrate empathy, humility, and non-judgment throughout this process, we may avoid unintended consequences from screening, strengthen our therapeutic relationships with caregivers and patients, and destigmatize social services.
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