Compliance Note

Addressing Social Determinants Of Health (SDOH)

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American Hospital Association Launches New Toolkit To Address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)​

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The American Hospital Association (AHA) developed a valuable resource to help healthcare providers address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). Its practical and compliance-focused “Screen, Refer, Resolve Toolkit” gives providers a structured framework for integrating SDOH considerations into their clinical workflows, improving health outcomes, and ensuring equity in patient care.

 

This toolkit highlights three key components:

 

• Screening Data: A comprehensive guide to identifying patients' SDOH-related needs by using systematic screening processes. This helps providers capture vital data about housing, transportation, food security, and financial stability; and it ensures they consider these factors in patient care plans.

 

• Health Equity Goals: Setting clear health equity objectives within your organization, such as aligning clinical care and patient engagement strategies to reduce disparities, particularly for vulnerable populations.

 

• Leveraging Technology Tools: Using technology to support SDOH-related initiatives, such as integrating SDOH data into electronic health records (EHRs) and improving communication between healthcare providers, patients, and community resources.

 

By using the Screen, Refer, Resolve Toolkit, organizations can better comply with regulatory requirements related to SDOH, ensure a holistic approach to patient care, and meet health equity goals – all of which improve overall patient outcomes.