A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine sheds light on the challenges faced by federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in addressing social risk factors among their patients. These centers serve approximately 30 million low-income and underinsured individuals across the United States who may otherwise struggle to access primary care.
The study, conducted by researchers from Boston University and Brown University, represents the first comprehensive analysis of data from all FQHCs nationwide regarding screening rates for social risks such as food insecurity, housing instability, financial strain, and lack of transportation. It revealed that more than 10% of patients reported experiencing at least one of these challenges in 2022.
The findings underscored significant disparities, with higher rates of social risk factors observed in FQHCs serving larger proportions of historically disenfranchised groups. Kevin Nguyen, lead author and assistant professor at Boston University, emphasized the vital role of FQHCs as safety-net providers, not only delivering health services but also assisting patients with essential needs like housing and transportation.
Key statistics from the study included a 27.6% positivity rate for financial strain, 16.3% for food insecurity, 15.4% for housing instability, and 14.1% for lack of transportation among screened patients. Many affected individuals reported incomes below the federal poverty level, lacked insurance, identified as Black, identified as LGBTQ+, experienced homelessness, or lived in urban areas.
Nguyen and colleagues highlighted the urgent need for increased support for FQHCs, particularly those serving marginalized communities. They suggested that targeted funding and policy initiatives could help integrate social risk screening into routine care practices, potentially mitigating barriers such as limited resources and training.
Nicole Giron, a doctoral candidate involved in the study, stressed the importance of sustained efforts to address patients’ social needs effectively. The researchers hope their findings will inform policies that incentivize healthcare providers to adopt sustainable models for addressing these critical issues in patient care.
In conclusion, the study underscores the ongoing structural challenges faced by vulnerable populations in accessing healthcare and calls for enhanced support for FQHCs to better meet the clinical and social needs of their patients nationwide.
