Association of Adopting Social Determinants of Health Screening Tools in the US Health System with Health, Economic, and Social Needs Outcomes

To describe the association between social determinants of health (SDOH) screening programs and clinical, economic, and social need outcomes in US health care settings, this scoping review examined peer-reviewed studies published between 2008 and 2023 that evaluated the implementation of SDOH screening programs within US health care settings. The review included observational and descriptive studies assessing the effects of screening on health system processes and patient outcomes. Eligible studies evaluated SDOH screening as an intervention and measured at least one clinical, economic, or social need-related outcome. Secondary data from published literature were used. Two were conducted across CINAHL, PubMed, and Cochrane databases using Medical Subject Headings terms related to SDOH and health care screening. Of the articles identified, 16 met inclusion criteria after full-text screening. Studies were included if they focused on US-based health care settings, implemented SDOH screening, and reported measurable outcomes relevant to health, cost, or social needs. Across the 16 included studies, SDOH screening was associated with improvements in referral rates, self-reported health status, mental health outcomes, and chronic disease management. Several studies reported successful integration of screening tools into clinical workflows with minimal disruption. However, fewer studies demonstrated direct resolution of social needs following screening, and outcome measurement strategies varied widely. SDOH screening programs in health care settings show promise for improving patient and system-level outcomes, though standardized follow-up practices and consistent outcome measures are lacking. Future research should focus on evaluating the extent to which identified needs are met and developing evidence-based protocols for implementing and assessing SDOH interventions.