631 - Patient Perspectives of Participation in Hospital-Led Social Needs Programming: A Mixed Methods Evaluation

Publication Number: 3612.631

Asli McCullers, MedStar Health Research Institute, Frederick, MD, United States; Shelby Wyand, Medstar Health Research Institute, Columbia, MD, United States; Nichelle Johnson, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital - Kids Mobile Medical Clinic, Washington, DC, United States; Joanne S. Odom, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States; Lori Leibowitz, Georgetown University Law School, Washington, DC, United States; Karey Sutton, MedStar Health Research Institute, Clinton, MD, United States; Janine A. Rethy, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, United States

Background: Addressing social needs is critical for advancing health equity among marginalized families, as factors such as food insecurity, housing instability, and legal challenges profoundly affect child health outcomes. Integrating social needs programming directly into pediatric care facilitates holistic support and reduces barriers to access. Evaluating these programs through patient feedback and multi-method approaches informs ongoing improvement and integration. A pediatric urban clinic in a large health system integrated an innovative social needs program into primary care including food access programming (Food as Medicine – FAM), financial health and legal support.

Objective: This study leverages a mixed-method approach to investigate the outcomes, utilization and experiences of families receiving social needs programming delivered through a pediatric clinic, including legal aid, food security, financial assistance, and other programs.

Design/Methods: All families participating in the FAM program) complete surveys at intake and 90 days post-intervention. Between July and November 2025, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 families (12 individuals) who participated in the FAM program and/or received legal support. Preliminary thematic analysis is ongoing using Dedoose qualitative software. Quantitative outcomes from food access and legal programs were also summarized.

Results: Among 69 FAM participants, 88.4% reported very low/low food security at intake, showing high need. EBT/SNAP or WIC enrollment increased from 72% at intake to 100% at 90-day follow-up. Participants valued fresh, high-quality, varied produce; 76% tried new fruits, veggies, or recipes; 91% reported improved access. Program participation strengthened clinic relationships (64%). Over 12 months, legal services supported 44 clients/113 cases. Interviews showed high satisfaction with services, emphasizing dedicated legal/care teams, simple screening, and food delivery impact on health/self-efficacy. Financial assistance was valued for tangible effect on financial stability. Participants were predominantly African American (91.6%) and women (83.3%), with care tenure 1 year to 20 years.

Conclusion(s): Integrating social needs programming into pediatric care through is well-received by families, improving food security, financial wellness, and access to legal support. Patient feedback highlights the value of accessible, coordinated, and comprehensive services, supporting ongoing optimization and integration of social needs interventions within pediatric care.