Table 2 Importance and frequency of policy discussions: representative quotations and major themes elicited from focus group analysis

Perceived importance of policy discussions

Discussing relevant policy issues allows providers to inform and empower families

“Anything you can do to lend your voice, and particularly empower your patients to lend their voices to these issues is really important.” – Attending Physician A

“If [patient] testimony is what’s necessary to change things…[providers] should be in a position to educate people and get them involved, since we’re their contact with the healthcare system.” – Resident Physician A

“I think we should be involved in helping to empower families to make their voices heard… the kids themselves don’t have a voice, you know, it’s us as their providers, keeping in mind their best interest, and their parents.” – Resident Physician B

Current frequency of policy discussions

Clinicians more frequently discuss timely issues or issues that are directly related to provision of medical care

“I think it was useful around the time of the election … when we were also trying to register families [to vote], to use that as a current event that could help you talk about policy issues.” – Resident Physician C

“If there’s something that’s immediately related to something [families] bring up or that you elicit in the interview, then I think that could be really an effective time to talk about this. “

– Resident Physician D

Clinicians frequently discuss social service programs with families, but do not often discuss the policies governing these programs

“When I talk to my families, I’m not talking broad policy things, I’m more assessing their situation - Are the kids in preschool or Head Start?… Do they have food insecurity?”

– Attending Physician B

“I probably feel a little more comfortable talking about … resources, and to make sure that they’re aware of what resources they’re eligible for and if not, how to get them.” – Resident Physician E