Health-Related Social Needs Screening Tool: Emerging Roles for Speech-Language Pathologists With a Clinical Focus on Children With Traumatic Brain Injury.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this clinical focus article is to describe the use of the Accountable Health Communities health-related social needs screening tool for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) while highlighting two case studies of children with traumatic brain injury.

Method: This article provides an overview of social determinants of health (SDOH) and health-related social needs with a primary focus on children with traumatic brain injury. It aims to inform and prepare clinicians to use a health-related social needs screening tool, as they can be directly addressed and mitigated with adequate community resources.

Results: SLPs are in the unique position to consider and understand their clients' SDOH, providing support or referral as needed if there are areas of social need or social risk factors.

Conclusions: SLPs could screen for health-related social needs by using the Accountable Health Communities health-related social needs screening tool subsequently advocating for patient-centered, holistic care. SLPs could individualize best care practice for their patients by engaging in interprofessional practice, making appropriate assessment and treatment modifications, and referring to related professionals.