What is risk stratification in relation to Needs Met Ratings?

• A. Grouping clients by geographic location.
• B. Grouping clients by likelihood of unmet needs or adverse outcomes; NMR data informs risk categories to prioritize interventions.
• C. Grouping clients by age.
• D. Grouping clients by provider preference.

Answer: (C)

Risk stratification focuses on sorting clients by how likely they are to have unmet needs or experience adverse outcomes. In relation to Needs Met Ratings, the NMR data shows which needs are unmet or partially met and where gaps exist. By analyzing this information, you can assign individuals to different risk levels and prioritize interventions for those at higher risk, ensuring that limited resources are directed where they’re most needed. Grouping by geographic location, age, or provider preference doesn’t directly reflect the likelihood of unmet needs or negative outcomes, so those factors don’t serve the same purpose as risk stratification based on how needs are met. The strength of using Needs Met Ratings for risk stratification lies in tying risk categories directly to the client’s current needs status, guiding targeted support and timely follow-up.