Overview
This resource provides practical guidance for pediatric health care systems and providers implementing non-medical needs screening in ways that are respectful, useful, and responsive to families. It emphasizes that effective screening depends not only on identifying needs, but also on how questions are asked and what support is available afterward.
What the Resource Covers
The brief reviews evidence and recommendations related to family-centered non-medical needs screening in pediatric settings. It discusses how organizations can explain the purpose of screening, build trust, protect privacy, reduce stigma, and avoid making families feel judged or pressured to disclose sensitive information. It also addresses the importance of connecting screening with meaningful referral and follow-up processes so that identified needs can lead to appropriate support.
Key Takeaways for Implementation
Pediatric screening programs should be designed around the experience of children and families, not just the completion of a screening tool. Clear communication, appropriate workflows, staff preparation, and reliable referral options can help make screening more effective and strengthen families’ willingness to participate.
Who May Find This Resource Useful
This resource may be especially useful for pediatric health systems, clinics, and providers seeking practical strategies to implement family-centered non-medical needs screening and better support families in connecting with needed services.
Resource Type: Issue Briefs & Reports; Tools & Toolkits.
Topic Areas: Pediatrics, non-medical needs screening, family-centered care, referrals, program implementation.
Population or Setting: Pediatric health care settings, children, and families.
Publication Date: Spring 2021.
Source: PolicyLab at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
