Optimizing EHR Screening Workflows to Respond to the Needs of Homeless Individuals

The National Health Care for the Homeless Council, The HITEQ Center, May 2026

The National Health Care for the Homeless Council and the HITEQ Center have partnered to help health centers leverage their electronic health records (EHRs) to streamline the collection and use of non-medical needs data so they can ensure quicker linkage to care, break down internal silos, and better advocate for essential community resources. This document is organized around the “Levels of Social Need Screening Program Maturity” framework and includes examples from three case studies highlighting the experiences of peer health centers that have successfully navigated challenges in EHR configuration and community partnerships in implementing social needs screening. Whether your organization is just beginning to screen or is looking to revamp existing efforts, these insights will help you move your non-medical risk screening processes forward to improve health outcomes.