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Social determinants of health (SDOH) refer to the non-medical factors and conditions that influence individuals' health outcomes. SDOH encompass various aspects of life such as socioeconomic status, education level, employment opportunities, housing quality and stability, access to healthcare, social support networks, and environmental conditions. These factors often impact health outcomes more than the delivery of health services. 

CMS-Required Screening  

Understanding and addressing social determinants of health is essential for promoting health equity and improving health outcomes. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recognize the importance of addressing patients’ SDOH, and now requires healthcare providers screen patients 18 years and older for five SDOH domains, including: 

• food insecurity 
• housing stability 
• transportation needs 
• utility difficulties  
• interpersonal safety 

On April 9, the five required SDOH domains will go live in the Admission Navigator in Epic for all patients — excluding Emergency Department (ED) patients — to be screened. ED patients will be included in Phase 2 implementation, which is scheduled to roll out in late summer.   

The screening will be administered by nurses and social workers as part of the required nursing admission history. Patients identified as high risk will trigger an Epic BPA for a multidisciplinary consult order to the Inpatient Social Work team. The team will meet with the patient, complete additional screening, and provide resources and support.  Additional information is available by CBL in Workday.