Introduction

This information is for healthcare, human, and social service providers to support your knowledge of Nexus SD and prepare you to answer frequently asked questions from your clients or patients, also known as seekers.

Be prepared to explain “What is Nexus SD?”

Nexus SD is a statewide collaboration of health care, human, and social service providers sharing information using an integrated technology platform and referral system to coordinate whole-person care. When seekers agree to share their information with Nexus SD, partner agencies can view a shared seeker record and send electronic referrals to each other using a secure data platform.

Be prepared to explain “How do I benefit from joining Nexus SD?”

Seekers often benefit when connecting to multiple service providers for their various needs. As seekers and their families look for supportive services, opting into Nexus SD allows them to:

• Reduce the number of times they are asked to repeat basic information when they are referred to other partner agencies
• Access services and programs that may be unknown to them
• Avoid being referred to programs they have already accessed
• Receive an elevated level of care when agencies work together to coordinate care
• Receive warm handoffs from referral partners

Personalize how you frame the explanation to a seeker’s question about why joining Nexus SD is beneficial, including why and how their data is shared. Below is sample language.

• I’d like to talk with you about being able to access supportive services outside our agency. Many of the service providers in this area are working together as part of a network referred to as Nexus SD. Agreeing to share your information with this network could make it easier to connect you to services such as <insert services relevant to client, i.e., food programs, housing assistance, legal assistance>.

• Agreeing to share your information with Nexus SD can help save time when trying to access services or programs outside the services you receive here.

• By signing Nexus SD’s consent agreement and sharing your information with your care team, they can work with service providers at other partner organizations you are working with or receiving services from. This helps your team better understand what programs you may qualify for and what programs you are already connected to.

• I’d like to connect you with additional services to assist with your needs. Participating in Nexus SD makes it possible for us to provide referrals to partner agencies on your behalf. All partnering agencies enter into an agreement with Nexus SD agreeing to use the strictest confidentiality and privacy practices, meaning your information is kept confidential and only those who have a “need to know” will access your personal information.

• Do you see yourself seeking other kinds of support such as food resources, utility, or childcare assistance?

Be prepared to answer common questions:

• Q. Is there a cost for me to join Nexus SD?
• A. There is no cost for a seeker to join Nexus SD.

• Q. Is there a cost to receive services or referrals?
• A. This will vary based on the agency and the services they provide. Many services and programs are provided free of charge or at a low cost. There is no cost to you when we provide a referral.

• Q. What happens when I sign a consent agreement?
• A. When you sign a consent agreement, you authorize Nexus SD to collect, store, and share your data with other Nexus SD partner agencies. By completing a consent and allowing your care team access to your information, we can assess needs, coordinate care and provide a better level of service to you.

• Q. Am I able to receive services and referrals if I don’t sign the consent agreement?
• A. Yes. You can receive services and referrals outside Nexus SD if you do not choose to share your information within Nexus SD. Services and referrals from our agency will still be provided to you, but your information will not be entered in Nexus SD. However, signing a consent will save you time because you will only have to tell your story once, can be screened for any additional needs, and can get connected to appropriate services more quickly.

• Q. Who can see my information?
• A. When you join Nexus SD, your information will be guarded by strict privacy and confidentially measures. Only individuals with a “need to know” will access your information.

• Q. What type of information is collected?
• A. The information collected includes, but is not limited to, identifying information such as name, date of birth, as well as demographic information, needs and service information, and any other applicable information necessary to connect you with the correct programs and services.

• Q. Can I stop sharing my information?
• A. Yes. You can stop sharing your data by working with your partnering agency to complete the Nexus SD Opt-Out Form and process. After the opt-out process is complete, your information will no longer be shareable within Nexus SD and no longer visible by new members outside your previous care team. You may also opt back in at any point by completing a new consent through Nexus SD or a Nexus SD partner.

How can I respond to a seeker’s question about the purpose of a social needs screening and what the information is used for?

The social needs screening is a way to help us identify multiple needs you may have and view your overall wellness. We use this information to connect you with appropriate services and programs that fit your needs.

Below are key points that can be used to help respond:

• We offer to screen everyone.
• The social needs screening is optional.
• We typically offer screenings once or twice a year.
• The screening takes only 5-10 minutes to complete.
• The social needs screening helps us coordinate your care needs with other Nexus SD partner agencies.
• Your information is protected by strict privacy and confidentiality practices and only those with a “need to know” will access your information.

There are situations when you should avoid requesting consent from an individual.

When the individual is:

• Unable to understand the language in which the information is being provided
• Incoherent or unable to understand what they are signing due to illness or a mental health condition
• Under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol

If you are in a situation where the seeker cannot complete a consent, you may not include their information within Nexus SD. Instead, work with the seeker to remove any barriers necessary prior to obtaining their consent.