A self-administered, computer-based questionnaire was used to collect data from 205 parents of children aged 0 to 6 years attending paediatric clinics for a well-child visit. The authors sought to understand the burden of health-related social issues faced by families, and their experience of screening and referral for these issues. At least 1 health-related social problem was reported by 82% of families, and 2 or more by 54%, although during the previous 12 months, one third of families reported no screening for these issues. A need for referral was identified by 70% of families. 63% of referrals made resulted in a contact with the referral agency, and the agency was found helpful in 82% of cases. 92% of parents considered that locating a computer-based system for screening and referral of health-related social problems in a paediatrician’s office would be acceptable.
