Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
Spring 2026
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Carole Mackavey
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to increase social determinants of health (SDOH) screening rates by incorporating an enhanced patient history form into the patient intake process in a women’s health clinic.
Background: The project was implemented in a small, rural clinic led by advanced practice providers that is affiliated with a large academic healthcare institution in southeast Texas. Addressing SDOH is essential for improving health outcomes and supporting value-based care initiatives, yet screening is often inconsistent in outpatient settings.
Methodology: The Plan–Do–Study–Act (PDSA) framework was used for implementation. A brief SDOH screening tool was embedded into the existing patient history form used during new patient and annual visits. Clinic staff received education on SDOH and their role in identifying social needs prior to implementation. Screening data were collected over a 12-week period, and pre- and post-implementation screening rates were compared to evaluate project outcomes.
Results: During the implementation period, 167 of 328 eligible patients were screened for SDOH. This resulted in a 2.5% increase in screening rates compared with baseline. Findings suggest that integrating a structured SDOH screening tool into routine intake documentation can modestly improve screening completion.
Implications for Practice: Routine SDOH screening is feasible within a women’s health clinic workflow. Early identification of social needs facilitates referral to community resources, supports comprehensive patient-centered care, and aligns with broader value-based healthcare initiatives.
The sustainability of this initiative is contingent upon ongoing staff education and regular audits of screening rates.
Keywords
Social Determinants of Health, Rural Health, SDOH screening
Recommended Citation
Candice L. Bruce, "Streamlining Patient Workflow: Enhancing the screening process for social determinants of health to ensure consistent patient intake in a medical clinic" (2026). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 170.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/170