Factors affecting U.S. adults’ comfort level in sharing social needs information with healthcare providers

Abstract

Objective

This study examines various factors affecting U.S. adults’ comfort level in sharing information about their social needs with healthcare providers.

Methods

We used data from the 2022 Health Information National Trends Survey (cycle 6), a nationally representative survey of U.S. adults (n = 6252). The outcome variables were participants’ comfort level in sharing information about three social needs (food insecurity, transportation difficulties, and housing instability). Data were analyzed using weighted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

Participants who faced discrimination when getting medical care based on race/ethnicity were more likely to be uncomfortable in sharing information about food insecurity, housing instability, and transportation difficulties. Those who trusted the healthcare system “a lot” were less likely to be uncomfortable in sharing information about food insecurity and transportation difficulties. Patient-Centered Communication (PCC) and social isolation scores significantly affected participants’ comfort level in sharing information about social needs.

Conclusion

Various factors such as trust, discrimination, social isolation, and PCC were found to be significantly affecting US adults’ comfort level in sharing information about social needs.

Practice implications

Healthcare systems and policymakers should focus on developing approaches and strategies to enhance trust, reduce discrimination, improve patient-provider communication, and create supportive social environments.