Health Innovations
The health innovations department at the Steele Institute for Health advances population health to improve the well-being of our patients, communities and members of the Geisinger family.
Our approach goes beyond traditional medical care. By integrating human-centered design and innovative screening solutions, we identify risks such as unmet social needs, environmental factors, chronic health conditions and gaps in preventive care. These insights allow us to deliver tailored recommendations, programs and services that address the whole person.
What are health-related social needs?
These are immediate barriers — like access to food, housing and transportation — that can prevent people from getting care and impact health outcomes.
To address these challenges, we’ve implemented an organizational strategy and launched pilot programs in partnership with community-based organizations. Our work includes:
- Technology-driven screening to identify social needs and underlying risk factors
- Data dashboards and reporting tools to track trends and measure outcomes
- Analytics-driven interventions to guide partnerships and scale successful programs
- Resource expansion to increase capacity for community partners
- Outcome-focused strategies to reduce social risk factors and improve health
This crucial work strengthens Geisinger’s role as a health advocate for one and all.
Featured health innovations:
We’re working across sectors to find new, creative ways to address social and environmental factors that impact health.
Neighborly is an online database linking patients, providers and community organizations to thousands of social resources, from food and housing to transportation and employment.
From connecting people to SNAP benefits and local food resources to bringing mobile food pantries to rural communities, we’re making healthy food easier to access.
One of our most impactful initiatives is the Fresh Food Farmacy®. This program provides prescriptions for free, nutritious food to qualifying patients, along with recipes, nutrition education and ongoing support.
Geisinger helps patients and members enroll in transportation programs, such as the Medical Assistance Transportation Program, and provides support with applications. We also develop solutions to reduce missed appointments and create additional locations that address social needs.
