Summary:
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own organs and tissue. Due to its uncommon nature, it is often hard to diagnose, particularly in disadvantaged populations. While not typically fatal, it can be deadly when left undiscovered and untreated. Individuals who face social determinants of health (SoDH) challenges face a disproportionate risk of suffering from Lupus. Social, behavioral, and economic factors can make it difficult for patients to receive care or adhere to treatment plans. To combat this, GSK hired Atlas Clarity LLC to assess the feasibility of a SoDH screening tool in lupus clinics and how further implementation of a screening tool might improve patient outcomes in the future.
The project was split into two studies: a mixed-methods feasibility study and an implementation study. The Phase 1 study focused on both patient and clinician reactions to a SoDH screening tool, collecting data on different elements of the tool's usage. Phase 2 focused on implementing an improved tool with a trained care team.
From the studies, infographics and posters were also produced that highlighted key aspects of the tool and study results. An article was published in Arthritis Care & Research on the feasibility study in May 2025, entitled "Screening for Social Determinants of Health in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Point-of-Care Feasibility Study."