Work

Evaluating screening and intervention for poverty in family practice settings in Saskatchewan in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: Poverty is a risk factor for poor health. We sought to determine the practices, barriers, knowledge and comfort with poverty screening and intervention amongst family physicians (FPs), family medicine residents (FMRs) and family nurse practitioners (NPs) in Saskatchewan, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A survey was distributed by email and newsletters to FPs, FMRs and NPs in Saskatchewan during 2022. Results: Eighty-three FPs, 35 FMRs and 25 NPs responded. Time, patient factors, practitioner knowledge and availability of community resources/services were reported barriers. Comfort discussing government benefits with patients was low, with slight differences amongst provider groups ( p =.042). Thirty-one (40.3%) FPs, 7 (20.6%) FMRs and 17 (68.0%) NPs had referred a patient to a government benefit. Eight (6%) respondents used the Poverty Screening Tool. Discussion: Further research and training is needed to integrate poverty screening and intervention into primary care, given practitioners’ role as healthcare’s initial point of contact.

Source: Primary Health Care Research & Development

DOI: 10.1017/s1463423625100716

Authors: Loreanne Manalac, Madeline Collins, Olivia Robertson, Adam Clay, Rejina Kamrul

Institution: University of Saskatchewan

Language: English

Topic: Food Security and Health in Diverse Populations

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, No poverty, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,550