Incorporating a Social Determinants of Health Screener into Resident Clinic: Lessons Learned and Opportunities for Change

Course Overview

Identifying and addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) is well recognized as an important part in providing holistic care to vulnerable populations. Awareness of SDoH was heightened during the COVID pandemic due to increasing numbers of unemployment as well as identified racial and health disparities amongst those infected by the virus. Medical societies recommending screening for SDoH include the AAP, ACP, AAFP, and APA. While the adoption of SDoH screeners is increasing, many resident clinics have no formal way to screen or refer patients for SDoH needs and therefore residents are not taught how to identify or address social needs that directly impact health. The Internal Medicine-Pediatrics (Med-Peds) residency at the University of Colorado developed a formal screening and referral process for SDoH at their continuity clinic in Southwest Denver and wish to disseminate the knowledge garnered through this process. Participants who attend the workshop will learn how to integrate or develop a formal SDoH screener and implement a referral process for identified SDoH needs in their resident clinic.

Learning Objectives

Define SDoH and describe ways they impact health outcomes.
Outline resources available within the residency program and clinical site and utilize this to implement a SDoH screener and referral process.
Review barriers and opportunities to successful implementation and adoption of a SDoH screener and referral process in a busy resident clinic or primary care practice.

Speakers

Mi Tran MD
University of Colorado School of Medicine

Julie A. Venci MD
University of Colorado School of Medicine

Carolina Gutierrez MD
University of Colorado School of Medicine

Helena Villalobos MD
University of Colorado School of Medicine

Additional Information

Year Published: 2022 - AIMW