Survey Finds Gaps in Universal Suicide Risk Screening in U.S. Hospitals

A new Pew Charitable Trusts survey reveals that 35% of accredited U.S. hospitals do not require universal suicide risk screening, despite the Joint Commission’s National Patient Safety Goal mandating screening for patients aged 12 and older with behavioral health concerns. Barriers to implementation include concerns about workflow disruptions (50.8%) and the lack of formal requirements (49.2%).

 

However, hospitals that have adopted screening protocols highlighted strategies such as leadership support, telehealth, and training to overcome challenges. While many hospitals exceed Joint Commission requirements, resource limitations remain a significant hurdle in providing follow-up care for those who screen positive for suicidality. Read the study here.