Clinician Perceptions of Unmet Social Needs Among Older Veterans
Author Information
Author(s): Ream Molly, Polacek Laura, Moye Jennifer, O’Malley Kelly, Baird Lola, Bashian Hannah, Kaiser Anica Pless
Primary Institution: VA Boston Healthcare System
Hypothesis
Do older Veterans experience different unmet social needs based on their rurality?
Conclusion
Rural clinicians reported greater unmet social needs among Veterans compared to urban clinicians, but also identified many social facilitators.
Supporting Evidence
- Rural clinicians reported greater unmet social needs among Veterans compared to urban clinicians.
- High reports of social facilitators among rural clinicians included close-knit communities and value in helping others.
- Rural clinicians expressed high interest in delivering the ESVP intervention.
Takeaway
Some older Veterans need more help with social issues, especially those living in rural areas, but there are also many ways to support them.
Methodology
Survey of VA clinicians assessing unmet social needs and interest in a group-based intervention.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported data from clinicians.
Limitations
The study may not represent all clinicians or Veterans across different regions.
Participant Demographics
Clinicians treating older adults (age > 60) at VA hospitals, with a mix of rural and urban caseloads.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003, 0.044, 0.011
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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