Feasibility of mobile technology to identify and address patients' unmet social needs in a primary care clinic

Mobile health tools may overcome barriers to social needs screening; however, there are limited data on the feasibility of using these tools in clinical settings. The objective was to determine the feasibility of using a mobile health system to screen for patients' social needs. In one large primary care clinic, the authors tested a tablet-based system that screens patients for social needs, transmits results to the electronic health record, and alerts providers. All adult patients presenting for a nonurgent visit were eligible. The authors evaluated the feasibility of the system and conducted follow-up surveys to determine acceptability and if patients accessed resources through the process. All providers were surveyed. Of the 252 patients approached, 219 (86.9%) completed the screen. Forty-three (19.6%) required assistance with the tablet, and 150 (68.5%) screened positive for at least 1 unmet need (food, housing, or transportation). Of the 150, 103 (68.7%) completed a follow-up survey. The majority agreed that people would learn to use the tablet quickly. Forty-eight patients (46.6%) reported contacting at least 1 community organization through the process. Of the 27 providers, 23 (85.2%) completed a survey and >70% agreed the system would result in patients having better access to resources. It was feasible to use a tablet-based system to screen for social needs. Clinics considering using mobile tools will need to determine how to screen patients who may need assistance with the tool and how to connect patients to resources through the system based on the burden of unmet needs.