Document Type
DNP Project
Publication Date
5-2024
Degree Name
Doctor of Nursing Practice
Faculty Advisor
Susan DeNisco, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
Practice Mentor
Constance Glenn, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, CNE
Abstract
Significance and Background: Social determinants play a major role in the overall health of our nation. While screening for social determinants of health (SDOH) in the primary care setting is encouraged, there is no streamlined process in place. Studies have determined that improved SDOH screenings can result in better patient outcomes and a decrease in healthcare costs. A protocol to improve SDOH screenings was needed to guide patient outcomes at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Connecticut.
Purpose: Deliver education to providers and healthcare staff across the health system on significance of social determinants of health and PRAPARE screening protocol in order to increase SDOH screenings.
Methods: Plan-Do-Study-Act. Plan: A screening protocol for SDOH was developed at the FQHC. Educational presentation was developed. Do: An educational session was conducted
Via Zoom. PowerPoint presentation and educational materials were disseminated to providers and reception staff with an additional brief presentation at a staff meeting. Study: Data was gathered on screening rates for SDOH, as well as referrals made. Act: Present data to stakeholders.
Outcome: Over the seven-week implementation period, there were a total of 1,837 patients eligible for SDOH screening. Of this total, there were 631 completed SDOH screenings completed, with a total of 371 positive screens. Areas with positive responses included food insecurity (29), housing insecurity (70), financial strain (226), and lack of transportation (46). Financial strain posed to have the greatest percentage of positive responses, at 60% of all positive SDOH screenings recorded.
Discussion: The implementation and reinforcement of SDOH screenings performed during patient intake identified many areas where patients at the FQHC need support
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Khan, A. (2024).Screening for social determinants of health screening in the primary care setting: A quality improvement project [Unpublished DNP project]. Sacred Heart University.
Comments
A DNP project submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice, Sacred Heart University Davis & Henley College of Nursing.