Interoperability of health-related social needs data at US hospitals

OBJECTIVE: To measure hospital engagement in interoperable exchange of health-related social needs (HRSN) data. 

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study combined national data from the 2022 American Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Survey, AHA IT Supplement, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Impact File. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify hospital characteristics associated with receiving HRSN data from external organizations. 

RESULTS: Of 2502 hospitals, 61.4% reported electronically receiving HRSN data from external sources, most commonly from health information exchange organizations. Hospitals participating in accountable care organizations or patient-centered medical homes and hospitals using Epic or Cerner electronic health records (EHRs) were more likely to receive external HRSN data. In contrast, for-profit hospitals and public hospitals were less likely to participate in HRSN data exchange. 

DISCUSSION: Hospital ownership, participation in value-based care models, and EHR vendor capabilities are important drivers in advancing HRSN data exchange. CONCLUSION: Additional policy and technological support may be needed to enhance HRSN data interoperability.