Transforming Clinician Patience into Proactive Solutions

In the world of healthcare, the biggest hurdles often lie beyond the clinic walls. Social determinants like housing instability, food scarcity, insufficient income, and immigration status are significant players that impede effective medical treatment, particularly in under-resourced communities. These factors can leave clinicians feeling helpless, frustrated by the limitations placed upon their practice.

Introducing the CARD Initiative

At Wayne State University in Detroit, a groundbreaking initiative named the Community Aid and Resource Distribution (CARD) has emerged to tackle these pressing issues. Dr. Mindy Hoang, a rising star and first-year resident, recently unveiled CARD during the prestigious American College of Physicians (ACP) Internal Medicine Meeting 2025 in New Orleans. This initiative aims to empower clinicians by enabling them to better connect with their patients’ social needs.

A Response to Overwhelming Needs

"We started CARD in response to the overwhelming social needs our residents encountered," Dr. Hoang explains. "It’s not that they were daunted by their patients’ circumstances, but rather the realization that the resources to help were drastically limited. Many residents reported that a significant portion of their visits revolved around these social determinants." She highlights that it becomes nearly impossible to manage issues like asthma when patients live in environments plagued with black mold or face financial barriers preventing them from moving.

A Practical Solution for Busy Lives

The CARD initiative offers a practical touchpoint: a user-friendly booklet that residents can easily refer to while addressing a patient's social needs. From medication assistance to housing support, residents can pinpoint resources efficiently, streamlining the referral process.

Integrating Community Support for Lasting Impact

While CARD is a vital tool, Dr. Hoang points out that the ultimate goal is to integrate community health workers and social workers into primary care settings. "Our clinic operates in a resource-limited environment, making such integration imperative for sustainable success. Our new approach includes setting up a community health worker initiative to better connect with patients in need," she notes.

Embracing Collaborative Problem Solving

CARD isn’t just about handing out resources; it encourages a collaborative approach to healthcare. Recent projects like the Health Equity, Justice, and Medicine Initiative allow residents to submit complex cases that require innovative solutions. For instance, a case involving an undocumented child with type 1 diabetes showcased how collaboration can lead to finding alternate avenues for treatment.

Advice for Fellow Clinicians Facing Social Challenges

For clinicians who may not regularly encounter social determinants, Dr. Hoang emphasizes the importance of reaching out. "Start by connecting with community centers, gather insights into local challenges, and establish relationships with community leaders. Understanding and addressing social needs is not solely the responsibility of physicians; it requires a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that fosters better health outcomes for all."

Together Toward a Healthier Future

This new wave of care, steeped in collaboration and community integration, shines a light on an often-overlooked aspect of healthcare: the substantial influence of social determinants. The CARD initiative at Wayne State University stands as a testament to the power of innovation in addressing these challenges, marking a pivotal movement toward a more holistic model of health.