Family physicians are increasingly recognizing the importance of social factors in patient health, leading to a significant rise in the documentation of social determinants of health (SDOH) within electronic health records (EHRs). This shift highlights a broader commitment to addressing the comprehensive needs of patients beyond traditional medical care.
Implementation and Methods
A recent study analyzed responses from 2,089 family physicians who participated in the 2022 American Board of Family Medicine Continuous Certification Questionnaire. The research focused on how these physicians documented SDOH, whether through checkboxes, narrative notes, or diagnostic codes within EHRs. The study employed logistic regression to identify factors that influence this documentation practice.
Key Findings
The investigation revealed that 61% of family physicians incorporated SDOH into their clinical notes, while 46% used checkboxes and 35% applied diagnostic codes. Notably, participation in value-based programs, availability of resources to address social needs, collaboration with community organizations, and practice locations in disadvantaged areas were strong predictors of proactive SDOH documentation.
- Engagement in value-based care models encourages SDOH recording.
- Access to resources and community partnerships enhances documentation practices.
- Physicians in higher Social Deprivation Index areas are more diligent in recording SDOH.
The study emphasizes that socioeconomic characteristics of the community and the capacity of medical practices to address SDOH are more influential than individual physician traits in determining the extent of SDOH documentation. These insights suggest that systemic support and resource allocation are crucial for embedding SDOH considerations into primary care effectively.
Robust documentation of SDOH in EHRs represents a pivotal advancement in primary care, enabling more personalized and effective patient care strategies. The findings underscore the necessity for ongoing financial incentives and enhanced support systems to empower healthcare providers in integrating social factors into their clinical workflows. As practices continue to build capacity and strengthen community ties, the holistic approach to patient health is likely to become more prevalent, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and reduced disparities.
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