Improving Care for Every Patient: Using Clinically Relevant Data to Provide Comprehensive Care and Support Patient Outcomes

A growing desire to treat the whole patient requires better insights into social determinants of health (SDoH) data in patient records. This shift to whole care means a greater focus is needed on mental health, which was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and can be impacted by SDoH.

Medical claims data is one tool pharmacists can utilize to understand their patient population and the environments in which they live. When pharmacists have access to data on SDoH and medical claims, they have the ability to implement creative solutions to address patients’ mental health needs. While they would not provide mental health services, pharmacists are trusted professional who can help screen and assess patients, make referrals for treatment, and follow-up with patients to ensure they adhere to medications.