SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Assessment of Social Determinants of Health in Gunshot Wound Survivors

Pdf Summary

This poster presents a study on social determinants of health (SDOH) among gunshot wound (GSW) survivors in Milwaukee, WI. The authors surveyed 100 patients admitted to a Level 1 trauma center to assess needs related to insurance, primary care access, finances, housing, and mental health.<br /><br />The background notes that about 71,000 people are non-fatally injured by firearms each year in the U.S., yet the social needs of this population are not well understood, especially at discharge. The study aimed to identify barriers that may affect recovery after hospitalization.<br /><br />Key findings show substantial unmet needs: 39.6% of patients had a primary care physician, but 25% of those had not seen their PCP within the past year. Additionally, 27% reported no access to mental health services after discharge. Most strikingly, 85% of respondents did not know about the Crime Victim Compensation Program.<br /><br />The conclusion is that SDOH barriers can significantly hinder recovery for GSW survivors after discharge. The authors argue that systemic change and stronger social support are needed, and that hospitals can help by screening for SDOH needs and connecting patients to appropriate community resources.

Asset Subtitle

Hamsitha Karra

Meta Tag

Author List Amber Brandolino, Elise Biesboer, Hamsitha Karra, Jessica Prom, Jonelle Campbell, Mary Schroeder, Nana Danso

Category Research

Concept Social Determinants of Health

Concept Gunshot Wound Survivor

Concept Healthcare Access

Concept Discharge

Concept Primary Care

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Medical College of Wisconsin

Presenting Author Hamsitha Karra

Track Quality Improvement

Keywords

social determinants of health

gunshot wound survivors

Milwaukee

trauma center

primary care access

mental health services

insurance barriers

housing needs

crime victim compensation

community resources

Social Determinants of Health

Gunshot Wound Survivor

Healthcare Access

Discharge

Primary Care