Provider Perspectives on Screening for Social Determinants of Health in Pediatric Settings: A Qualitative Study

Sokol, Rebeccah L; Ammer, Julia; Stein, Sara F; Trout, Phoebe; Mohammed, Layla; Miller, Alison L

INTRODUCTION: Pediatric settings often screen children and/or caregivers for social determinants of health (SDH) needs. Although SDH awareness rose with COVID, questions remain regarding best practices for SDH screening in pediatric settings. METHOD: We assessed pediatric providers' perspectives on integrating SDH screening into patient care. Semistructured interviews were conducted with providers (n = 13) from 10 clinics. Interviews were transcribed, and themes were analyzed using the constant comparative method. RESULTS: Themes highlighted providers' awareness of structural limitations to address social needs identified by screening; implementation concerns; the unique role of pediatric providers for child health and well-being; provider comfort with assessing patients' social needs; patient considerations; the importance of relational health between pediatric providers and families, and between providers and community supports for effective screening; and unintended consequences. DISCUSSION: Pediatric providers endorse the need for SDH screening, but barriers in pediatric settings may hamper the process and reduce efficacy.