Youth suicide rates have been on the rise since 2007, and in 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for youth aged 10-19. Given that about 80% of youth who die by suicide have a health service contact with an outpatient physician in the year before death, primary care is a critical site for suicide prevention. Many clinicians in the suicide prevention community have advocated for suicide risk screening in pediatric primary care centers. These findings have led to our research intervention, STARRS-PC. By providing an evidence-based intervention in pediatric primary care clinics, our goal is to reduce suicide and suicidal behaviors in youth.  Research participants will comprise of youth aged 12-17 who screen positive for suicide risk.

With funding from the NIMH, the STARRS-PC research intervention aims to reduce suicide and suicidal behaviors in youth by intervening in pediatric primary care centers. We are currently recruiting pediatric primary care practices, both in urban and rural areas within Central and Southeast Ohio, to take part in this research intervention. STARRS-PC will provide clinics with an evidence-based clinical pathway as well as training on suicide screening, suicide risk assessment, and safety planning to improve care for suicidal youth. Clinics will also be provided with research support and compensated for their participation.

If you or your practice would like more information on this study, have questions, or are interested in participating, please reach out to one of the following primary investigators:

• Cynthia Fontanella, PhD: fontanella@nationwidechildrens.org
• Jeff Bridge, PhD: bridge@nationwidechildrens.org
• Alex Kemper, MD: kemper@nationwidechildrens.org