Overview
This checklist provides practical guidance for state Medicaid agencies developing or improving policies to screen Medicaid members for health-related social needs, also known as non-medical drivers of health. It focuses on key decisions agencies should consider when designing screening requirements and connecting identified needs to follow-up services.
What the Resource Covers
The tool walks through major policy and implementation considerations for non-medical needs screening, including the purpose and scope of screening, who should be screened, which screening tools to use, how often screening should occur, and how results should be documented and used. It also addresses follow-up after screening and provides examples of approaches used by state Medicaid programs. The guidance draws on lessons from states participating in the Medicaid Health-Related Social Needs Implementation Learning Series.
Key Takeaways for Implementation
Effective screening policies require decisions that extend beyond selecting a screening tool. Medicaid agencies also need to consider how screening fits into existing workflows, how information will be collected and shared, what happens when a need is identified, and how requirements affect managed care organizations and providers..
Who May Find This Resource Useful
This resource may be especially useful for state Medicaid agency personnel developing, refining, or overseeing policies for screening Medicaid members for non-medical needs and ensuring appropriate follow-up..
Resource Type: Tools & Toolkits.
Topic Areas: Medicaid, non-medical needs screening, referrals, program implementation.
Population or Setting: State Medicaid programs and Medicaid serving healthcare providers.
Publication Date: October 2024.
Source: Center for Health Care Strategies, HealthBegins, and the Social Interventions Research and Evaluation Network (SIREN).
