Impact of systematic screening for social determinants of health in a level IV neonatal intensive care unit

Objective: To determine whether screening for social determinants of health (SDoH) in a level IV neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) could uncover additional family needs. 

Methods: Secondary analysis of a prospective study in a level IV NICU. Participants filled out the Protocol for Responding to and Assessing Patients’ Assets, Risks and Experiences (PRAPARE) tool, which includes economic, housing, transportation, and safety questions. Questionnaires were completed via secure tablet; the research team notified social workers of reported needs. Illness and demographic characteristics were compared between families who did and did not report resource needs. Manual chart review assessed subsequent response to reported SDoH needs. 

Results: Of 319 respondents, 61(19%) reported resource needs. Of 61 families, 88% received repeat social work encounters to re-assess for resources; 59% received new resource referrals. 

Conclusions: Systematic SDoH screening can identify needs throughout the NICU stay, even among families already connected to social work support.