Consumers’ perceptions of their health- related social needs

This article synthesizes insights gleaned from a survey of more than 5,000 US consumers that highlights how HRSNs are evolving; their potential impact on healthcare use, preferences, and outcomes; and actions healthcare entities may consider to effectively support consumers’ needs.

Key findings:

• Health-related social needs such as childcare, social support, and transportation are very common; nearly half of all consumers (45 percent) reported experiencing at least one on a regular basis. Among consumers reporting health-related social needs, the majority have more than one unmet need.
• HRSNs affect consumers across socioeconomic levels and insurance types, suggesting programs could be designed to meet the needs of a variety of consumer segments.
• Consumers with HRSNs were more likely to report poor physical and mental health and barriers to accessing care.
• Consumers with multiple HRSNs were more likely than other groups to report seeking support from family or friends, yet roughly 20 percent do not seek support.
• Consumers said they want health systems, health insurance companies, and employers to better understand their needs, suggesting these entities could play a greater role in meeting those