Knowledge and barriers related to food insecurity screening in healthcare settings

Objective: Assess healthcare professionals' knowledge, referral practices, readiness, and barriers for food insecurity policy and practice implementation in Johnson County, Kansas. Design: An expert panel of regional anti-hunger advocates was convened to identify critical domains for instrument development. Sample: The questionnaire was disseminated via REDCap to approximately 2800 healthcare professionals. Measurements: The questionnaire was composed of 32 items related to demographics, general knowledge, referral knowledge, current practices, perceived challenges, and perceived advantages. Results: Social Workers' knowledge regarding food insecurity and referral was statistically greater (p = .0001 and p = .0001, respectively) than other professional groups. By department, Primary Care and Care Coordination's knowledge regarding food insecurity and referral was statistically greater (p = .008 and p = .0001, respectively) than Ancillary Care. Ninety-eight percent of respondents reported that food insecurity should be addressed in healthcare. Evaluation of the unique perspectives and needs related to food insecurity and perceived barriers of the healthcare providers serving the local population will guide an organization in building an implementation plan targeting the unique needs of the organization. Policy implications: As the need for food insecurity services grow during the coronavirus pandemic, this work can help build the foundation for better communication and awareness between healthcare, government, and community programs.