Addressing Our Communities’ Health
The Healthy State Alliance is dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of Ohioans. By building upon existing programs within our organizations, we have expanded much-needed services across our patient communities.
Maternal and Infant Health: Produce Prescription Program
Focusing on maternal and infant health, OSU introduced a produce prescription program at one of our OBGYN clinics, inspired by a pre-existing program at Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH). We plan to expand this program to additional clinics across Franklin, Ohio, to address food insecurity in this population.
Addressing Health-Related Social Needs (HSRNs)
Our two organizations are committed to addressing Health-Related Social Needs (HSRNs), which are non-medical needs that affect a person’s ability to maintain their health and well-being. Beginning in January 2024, the Center for Medicare Services (CMS) requires all inpatients to be screened for HSRNs.
Patients often face decisions to address their social needs before their health needs. Lower-income patients must often choose between spending precious dollars on rent, utilities, and food instead of refilling medications or paying for healthcare visits. Patients without reliable transportation struggle to attend healthcare appointments, especially in rural areas. Those dealing with intimate partner violence face stigma in reporting, fear of retaliation, and a lack of resources to escape their situation.
Collaborative Solutions for Unmet Needs
The Healthy State Alliance believes that addressing these unmet HSRNs will positively impact the health of our communities. Together, Bon Secours Mercy Health and the OSU Wexner Medical Center can pool resources and expertise to find real solutions.
To meet the CMS mandate, both BSMH and OSU developed screening tools in our respective EMRs (electronic medical records) to screen inpatients on five dimensions:
Both organizations have developed workflows to determine when and where screenings will occur and which staff members will complete them.
Join us in our commitment to address the health and wellbeing of Ohioans by tackling these critical social needs. Together, we can create healthier communities and provide the support our patients deserve.
