Colvin et al used the IHELP social history method to improve detection of unmet social needs in primary pediatric care. The authors are from multiple institutions in the United States.
Patient selection: pediatric patient, typically with input from parent or guardian
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Acronym Letter
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Topics
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I
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income and insurance
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H
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hunger and housing
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E
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education and ensuring safety (intimate partner violence)
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L
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legal status (immigration)
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P
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power of attorney/guardianship
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Items:
(1) concerns about making ends meet
(2) concerns about health insurance (or paying for healthcare)
(3) concerns about having enough food
(4) concerns about food running out before having money to buy more
(5) concerns about poor housing conditions (pests, mold, etc)
(6) concerns about being evicted or not being able to pay rent or being able to pay mortgage
(7) concerns about a child's educational needs
(8) concerns about violence in the home (should be discussed without others in the room)
(9) hospital where born (if not in the US, immigration status and access to child care benefits for noncitizens)
(10) biological or adoptive parent OR documents proving power of attorney/guardianship
Once an issue is identified then the patient can be referred to the appropriate resource.
