Utilization, quality, and spending for pediatric Medicaid enrollees with primary care in health centers vs non-health centers

BACKGROUND

Limited research has explored the performance of health centers (HCs) compared to other primary care settings among children in the United States. We evaluated utilization, quality, and expenditures for pediatric Medicaid enrollees receiving care in HCs versus non-HCs.

METHODS

This national cross-sectional study utilized 2012 Medicaid Analytic eXtract (MAX) claims to examine children 0-17 years with a primary care visit, stratified by whether majority (> 50%) of primary care visits were at HCs or non-HCs. Outcome measures include utilization (primary care visits, non-primary care outpatient visits, prescription claims, Emergency Department (ED) visits, hospitalizations) and quality (well-child visits, avoidable ED visits, avoidable hospitalizations). For children enrolled in fee-for-service Medicaid, we also measured expenditures. Propensity score-based overlap weighting was used to balance covariates.

RESULTS

A total of 2,383,270 Medicaid-enrolled children received the majority of their primary care at HCs, while 18,540,743 did at non-HCs. In adjusted analyses, HC patients had 20% more primary care visits, 15% less non-primary care outpatient visits, and 21% less prescription claims than non-HC patients. ED visits were similar across the two groups, while HC patients had 7% lower chance of hospitalization than non-HC. Quality of care outcomes favored HC patients in main analyses, but results were less robust when excluding managed care beneficiaries. Total expenditures among the fee-for-service subpopulation were lower by $239 (8%) for HC patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study of nationwide claims data to evaluate healthcare utilization, quality, and spending among Medicaid-enrolled children who receive primary care at HCs versus non-HCs, findings suggest primary care delivery in HCs may be associated with a more cost-effective model of healthcare for children.

Differences in Health Care Utilization of High-Need and High-Cost Patients of Federally Funded Health Centers Versus Other Primary Care Providers

BACKGROUND

Primary care providers (PCP) differ in their ability to address the needs and reduce use of costly services among complex Medicaid beneficiaries. Among PCPs, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centers (HCs) are shown to provide high-value care.

OBJECTIVE

We compared health care utilization of complex Medicaid managed care beneficiaries whose PCPs were HCs versus 3 other groups.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Cross-sectional study using propensity score matching comparing health care use by provider type, controlling for demographics, health status, and other covariates.

SUBJECTS

California Medicaid administrative data for complex adult managed care beneficiaries with at least 1 primary care visit in 2018.

MEASURES

Primary and specialty care evaluation & management visits and services; emergency department (ED) visits; and hospitalizations. PCPs included HCs, clinics not funded by HRSA, solo, and group practice providers.

RESULTS

HRSA-funded HCs had lower predicted rates of specialty evaluation & management and other services than all others; lower predicted probability of any ED visits than clinics not funded by HRSA [54% (95% CI: 53%-55%) vs. 56% (95% CI: 55%-57%)] and group practice providers [51% (95% CI: 51%-52%) vs. 52% (95% CI: 52%-53%)]; and lower PP of any hospitalizations than solo [20% (95% CI: 19%-20%) vs. 23% (95% CI: 22%-24%)] and group practice providers [21% (95% CI: 20%-21%) vs. 24% (95% CI: 23%-24%)].

CONCLUSIONS

Differences in HC care delivery and practices were associated with lower use of specialty, ED, and hospitalization visits compared with other PCPs for complex Medicaid managed care beneficiaries. Understanding the underlying reasons for these utilization differences may promote better outcomes among these patients.

Weight management practices of health center providers in the United States

BACKGROUND

We examined weight management counseling practices of Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health center (HC) providers for patients with overweight (POW) and obesity (POB) status, focusing on weight-related conditions, risk factors, and health care utilization.

METHOD

We used a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of HC patients and multilevel generalized structural equation logistic regression models to assess the association of provider counseling practices for POW and POB and by three obesity classes. Dependent variables included being told by the HC provider that weight was a problem, receiving a diet or exercise recommendation, referral to a nutritionist, or receiving weight loss prescriptions. Independent variables included weight-related conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, risk factors such as smoking, and health service utilization such as five or more primary care visits.

RESULTS

All POB classes had higher odds of receiving all five counseling interventions than POW. Patients with diabetes and high cholesterol had higher odds of diet recommendations (OR = 1.8) and nutritionist referrals (OR = 2.3), while patients with cardiovascular disease had higher odds of nutritionist referral (OR = 2.0) and receiving weight loss prescriptions (OR = 2.6). Respondents with POB class III and diabetes had higher odds of receiving exercise recommendations (OR = 3.4), while POB class 1 and had hypertension had lower odds of nutritionist referral (OR = 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Variations in HC primary care providers' weight management counseling practices between POW and POB present missed opportunities for consistent practice and early intervention. Assessing providers' counseling practices for patients with comorbid conditions is essential to the successful management of the obesity crisis.

Factors associated with frequent emergency department visits among health centre patients receiving primary care

RATIONALE, AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

We sought to examine specific care-seeking behaviours and experiences, access indicators, and patient care management approaches associated with frequency of emergency department (ED) visits among patients of Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centres that provide comprehensive primary care to low-income and uninsured patients.

METHOD

We used cross-sectional data of a most recent nationally representative sample of health centre adult patients aged 18-64 (n = 4577) conducted between October 2014 and April 2015. These data were merged with the 2014 Uniform Data System to incorporate health centre characteristics. We measured care-seeking behaviours by whether the patient called the health centre afterhours, for an urgent appointment, or talked to a provider about a concern. Access to care indicators included health centre continuity of care and receipt of transportation or translation services. We included receipt of care coordination and specialist referral as care management indicators. We used a multilevel multinomial logistic regression model to identify the association of independent variables with number of ED visits (4 or more visits, 2-3 visits, 1 visit, vs. 0 visits), controlling for predisposing, enabling, and need characteristics.

RESULTS

Calling the health centre after-hours (OR = 2.41) or for urgent care (OR = 2.53), and being referred to specialists (OR = 2.36) were associated with higher odds of four or more ED visits versus none. Three or more years of continuity with the health centre (OR = 0.32) was also associated with lower odds of four or more ED visits versus none.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings underscore opportunities to reduce higher frequency of ED visits in health centres, which are primary care providers to many low-income populations. Our findings highlight the potential importance of improving patient retention, better access to providers afterhours or for urgent visits, and access to specialist as areas of care in need of improvement.

Health centres and social determinants of health: an analysis of enabling services provision and clinical quality

OBJECTIVE

It is well known that social determinants of health (SDOH), including poverty, education, transportation and housing, are important predictors of health outcomes. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centres serve a patient population with high vulnerability to barriers posed by SDOH and are required to provide services that enable health centre service utilisation and assist patients in navigating barriers to care. This study explores whether health centres with higher percentages of patients using these enabling services experience better clinical performance and outcomes.

DESIGN AND SETTING

The analysis uses organisational characteristics, patient demographics and clinical quality measures from HRSA's 2018 Uniform Data System. Health centres (n=875) were sorted into quartiles with quartile 1 (Q1) representing the lowest utilisation of enabling services and quartile 4 (Q4) representing the highest. The researchers calculated a service area social deprivation score weighted by the number of patients for each health centre and used ordinary least squares to create adjusted values for each of the clinical quality process and outcome measures. Analysis of variance was used to test differences across enabling services quartiles.

RESULTS

After adjusting for patient characteristics, health centre size and social deprivation, authors found statistically significant differences for all clinical quality process measures across enabling services quartiles, with Q4 health centres performing significantly better than Q1 health centres for several clinical process measures. However, these Q4 health centres performed poorer in outcome measures, including blood pressure and haemoglobin A1c control.

CONCLUSION

These findings emphasise the importance of how enabling services (eg, translation services, transportation) can address unmet social needs, improve utilisation of health services and reaffirm the challenges inherent in overcoming SDOH to improve health outcomes.

Ensuring Equitable Care in Diabetes Management Among Patients of Health Resources & Services Administration-Funded Health Centers in the United States

AIM

To explore whether there are racial/ethnic differences in diabetes management and outcomes among adult health center (HC) patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey, a national sample of HC patients. We examined indicators of diabetes monitoring (A1C testing, annual foot/eye doctor visits, and cholesterol checks) and care management (specialist referrals, individual treatment plan, and receipt of calls/appointments/home visits). We also examined diabetes-specific outcomes (blood glucose levels, diabetes-related emergency department [ED] visits/hospitalizations, and diabetes self-management confidence) and general outcomes (number of doctor visits, ED visits, and hospitalizations). We used multilevel logistic regression models to examine racial/ethnic disparities by the above indicators.

RESULTS

We found racial/ethnic parity in A1C testing, eye doctor visits, and diabetes-specific outcomes. However, Hispanics/Latinos (odds ratio [OR] 0.26), non-Hispanic African Americans (OR 0.25), and Asians (OR 0.11) were less likely to receive a cholesterol check than Whites. Non-Hispanic African Americans (OR 0.43) were less likely to have frequent doctor visits, while Hispanic/Latino patients (OR 0.45) were less likely to receive an individual treatment plan.

CONCLUSION

HCs largely provide equitable diabetes care but have room for improvement in some indicators. Tailored efforts such as culturally competent care and health education for some racial/ethnic groups may be needed to improve diabetes management and outcomes.

Early experience of the quality improvement award program in federally funded health centers

OBJECTIVES

To describe the Health Resources and Services Administration's Quality Improvement Award (QIA) program, award patterns, and early lessons learned.

STUDY SETTING

1413 health centers were eligible for QIA from 2014 to 2018.

STUDY DESIGN

We assessed cumulative QIA funding earned and modified funding excluding payments for per-patient bonuses, electronic health record (EHR) use, patient-centered medical home (PCMH) accreditation, and health information technology. We compared health centers on rural/urban location, PCMH accreditation, EHR reporting, and size.

DATA COLLECTION

Organizational and quality measures are reported in the Uniform Data System, QIA program data.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Average cumulative funding was higher for health centers that were not rural (USD 380,387 [± USD 233,467] vs. USD 303,526 [± USD 164,272]), had PCMH accreditation (USD 401,675 [± USD 218,246] vs. USD 250,784 [± USD 144,404]), used their EHR for quality reporting (USD 374,214 (± USD 222,866) vs. USD 331,150 (± USD 198,689)), and were large (USD 435,473 (± USD 238,193) vs. USD 270,681 (± USD 114,484) an USD 231,917 (± USD 97,847) for small and medium centers, respectively). There were similar patterns, with smaller differences, for average modified payments.

CONCLUSIONS

QIA is an important feasible initiative to introduce value-based payment principles to health centers. Early lessons for program design include announcing award criteria in advance and focusing on a smaller number of priority targets.

Factors associated with federally qualified health center financial performance

OBJECTIVES

To understand factors associated with federally qualified health center (FQHC) financial performance.

STUDY DESIGN

We used multivariate linear regression to identify correlates of health center financial performance. We examined six measures of health center financial performance across four domains: margin (operating margin), liquidity (days cash on hand [DCOH], current ratio), solvency (debt-to-equity ratio), and others (net patient accounts receivable days, personnel-related expenses). We examined potential correlates of financial performance, including characteristics of the patient population, health center organization, and location/geography.

DATA SOURCES

We use 2012-2017 Uniform Data System (UDS) files, financial audit data from Capital link, and publicly available data.

DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS

We focused on health centers in the 50 US states and District of Columbia, which reported information to UDS for at least 1 year between 2012 and 2017 and had Capital link financial audit data.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

FQHC financial performance generally improved over the study period, especially from 2015 to 2017. In multivariate regression models, a higher percentage of Medicaid patients was associated with better margins (operating margin: 0.06, p < 0.001), liquidity (DCOH: 0.67, p < 0.001; current ratio: 0.28, p = 0.001), and solvency (debt-to equity ratio: -0.08, p = 0.004). Moreover, a staffing mix comprised of more nonphysician providers was associated with better margin (operating margin: 0.21, p = 0.001) and liquidity (current ratio: 1.12, p < 0.001) measures. Patient-centered medical home (PCMH) recognition was also associated with better liquidity (DCOH: 19.01, p < 0.001; current ratio: 4.68, p = 0.014) and solvency (debt-to-equity ratio: -2.03, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The financial health of FQHCs improved with provisions of the Affordable Care Act, which included significant Medicaid expansion and direct funding support for health centers. FQHC financial health was also associated with key staffing and operating characteristics of health centers. Maintaining the financial health of FQHCs is critical to their ability to continuously provide affordable and high-quality care in medically underserved areas.

A Systematic Literature Review of Health Center Efforts to Address Social Determinants of Health

Health centers (HCs) play a crucial and integral role in addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) among vulnerable and underserved populations, yet data on SDOH assessment and subsequent actions is limited. We conducted a systematic review to understand the existing evidence of integration of SDOH into HC primary-care practices. Database searches yielded 3,516 studies, of which 41 articles met the inclusion criteria. A majority of studies showed that HCs primarily captured patient-level rather than community-level SDOH data. Studies also showed that HCs utilized SDOH in electronic health records but capabilities varied widely. A few studies indicated that HCs measured health-related outcomes of integrating SDOH data. The review highlighted that many knowledge gaps exist in the collection, use, and assessment of impact of these data on outcomes, and future research is needed to address this knowledge gap.

The Relative Contribution of Social Determinants of Health Among Health Resources and Services Administration-Funded Health Centers

Frameworks for identifying and assessing social determinants of health (SDOH) are effective for developing long-term societal policies to promote health and well-being, but may be less applicable in clinical settings. The authors compared the relative contribution of a specific set of SDOH indicators with several measures of health status among patients served by health centers (HCs). The 2014 Health Center Patient Survey was used to identify a sample of HC patient adults 18 years and older that reported the HC as their usual source of care (n = 5024). The authors examined the relationship between SDOH indicators organized in categories (health behaviors, access and utilization, social factors, economic factors, quality of care, physical environment) with health status measures (fair or poor health, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, depression, or anxiety) using logistic regressions and predicted probabilities. Findings indicated that access to care and utilization indicators had the greatest relative contribution to all health status measures, but the relative contribution of other SDOH indicators varied. For example, access indicators had the highest predicted probability in the model with fair or poor health as the dependent variable (72.4%) and the model with hypertension as the dependent variable (47.4%). However, the second highest predicted probability was for social indicators (54.1%) in the former model and physical environment (44.7%) indicators in the latter model. These findings have implications for HCs that serve as the primary point of access to medical care in underserved communities and to mitigate SDOH particularly for patients with diabetes, depression, or anxiety.

Disparities in smoking prevalence and associations with mental health and substance use disorders in underserved communities across the United States

BACKGROUND

Smoking contributes to the top 3 deadliest cancers, cancers of the lung, colon, and pancreas, which account for nearly 40% of all cancer-related deaths in the United States. Despite historicly low smoking rates, substantial disparities remain among people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders (SUDs).

METHODS

The study examined the prevalence of smoking among adults from underserved communities who are served at federally qualified health centers through an analysis of the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey. Furthermore, the study assessed associations of smoking with co-occurring mental health conditions and SUDs among adult smokers (n = 1735).

RESULTS

The prevalence of smoking among health center patients was 28.1%. Among current smokers, 59.1% had depression and 45.4% had generalized anxiety. Non-Hispanic Black smokers had more than 2 times the odds of reporting SUDs (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.13; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-4.30). Individuals at or below 100% of the federal poverty level had more than 2 times the odds of having mental health conditions (aOR, 2.55; 95% CI, 1.58-4.11), and those who were unemployed had more than 3 times the odds for SUDs (aOR, 3.21; 95% CI, 1.27-8.10).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of smoking in underserved communities is nearly double the national prevalence. In addition, the study underscores important socioeconomic determinants of health in smoking cessation behavior and the marked disparities among individuals with mental health conditions and SUDs. Finally, the findings illuminate the unique need for tailored treatments supporting cancer prevention care to address challenges confronted by vulnerable populations.

Blood Lead Testing Among Medically Underserved and Socially Vulnerable Children in the United States 2012-2017

CONTEXT

Lead poisoning can affect intellectual development, growth, hearing, and other health problems. Children 6 years or younger are particularly susceptible to lead poisoning. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centers (HCs) serve lower-income, minority, and vulnerable populations across the United States, who may be at a higher risk for lead exposure. At HCs, blood lead testing is monitored; however, little is known about testing rates and characteristics of children tested by HCs.

OBJECTIVES

We assessed the prevalence and characteristics of children who received a blood lead test at HCs from 2012 to 2017.

DESIGN

We assessed characteristics of children 12 to 60 months of age who had a blood lead test using available self-reported data from HRSA's Health Center Patient Survey (2014-2015). In addition, using HRSA's Uniform Data System, an administrative performance data set, we calculated the annual percentage change of blood lead testing from 2012 to 2017.

RESULTS

During 2014-2015, 1.1 million (72.9%; 95% CI, 64.6-81.3) out of the 1.5 million (n = 365 unweighted) eligible children 12 to 60 months of age self-reported receiving a blood lead test at an HRSA-funded HC. There was a significant higher proportion of children with a blood lead test among urban HCs (74.1%; 95% CI, 59.4-88.8) and among those who reported HCs as their usual source of care (99.9%; 95% CI, 99.7-100) (P ≤ .05).The total HC population of children younger than 72 months increased from 2 674 500 in 2012 to 2 989 184 in 2017, and we observed a 34.4% increase in blood lead testing at HRSA-funded HCs over the same time period.

CONCLUSIONS

HCs play an important role in providing access to blood lead testing in underserved communities in the United States. While HRSA-funded HCs have made substantial efforts to screen and educate patients on lead exposure, nonetheless continued screening and education efforts with both health providers at HCs and parents/guardians are warranted to continue to improve blood lead screening rates among high-risk groups.

Trends in access to care among rural patients served at HRSA-funded health centers

PURPOSE

Nearly one-fifth of Americans live in rural areas and experience multiple socioeconomic and health disparities. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centers (HCs) provide comprehensive primary care in rural communities. However, no prior research has examined trends in access to care in rural HC patients. We examined the change in access to care among patients served at rural HRSA-funded HCs in the United States between 2009 and 2014.

METHODS

We compared patients by year to examine measures of access using multilevel generalized structural equation logistic regression models with random effects. We used the 2009 and 2014 cross-sectional Health Center Patient Surveys and identified 2,625 adult rural HC patients. Dependent variables were subjective (unmet need/delay in medical care, mental health, dental care, and prescription medications) and objective measures (preventive care and other health care utilization) in access to care. Our independent variable of interest was time, comparing access in 2009 and 2014.

RESULTS

Rural HC patients reported higher predicted probability of influenza vaccine receipt (37% vs 51%), and lower unmet (25% vs 14%) and delayed medical care (36% vs 18%) between 2009 and 2014. Any emergency department visits in the last year increased (32% vs 46%) and mammogram (70% vs 55%) and Pap test (83% vs 72%) screening rates decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Observed increases in access to care among rural HC patients are positive developments but the challenges to access care still persist. Remote services, such as telehealth, could be cost-effective means of improving access to care among rural patients with limited provider supply.

Mental Health Staffing at HRSA-Funded Health Centers May Improve Access to Care

OBJECTIVE

The study objective was to examine the association between mental health staffing at health centers funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and patients' receipt of mental health treatment.

METHODS

Data were from the 2014 HRSA-funded Health Center Patient Survey and the 2013 Uniform Data System. Colocation of any mental health staff, including psychiatrists, psychologists, and other licensed staff, was examined. The outcomes of interest were whether a patient received any mental treatment and received any such treatment on site (at the health center). Analyses were conducted with multilevel generalized structural equation logistic regression models for 4,575 patients ages 18-64.

RESULTS

Patients attending health centers with at least one mental health full-time equivalent (FTE) per 2,000 patients had a higher predicted probability of receiving mental health treatment (32%) compared with those attending centers with fewer than one such FTE (24%) or no such staffing (22%). Among patients who received this treatment, those at health centers with no staffing had a significantly lower predicted probability of receiving such treatment on site (28%), compared with patients at health centers with fewer than one such FTE (49%) and with at least one such FTE (65%). The predicted probability of receiving such treatment on site was significantly higher if there was a colocated psychiatrist versus no psychiatrist (58% versus 40%).

CONCLUSIONS

Colocating mental health staff at health centers increases the probability of patients' access to such treatment on site as well as from off-site providers.

Exploring the association of social determinants of health and clinical quality measures and performance in HRSA-funded health centres

Objective

This paper explores the impact of service area-level social deprivation on health centre clinical quality measures.

Design

Cross-sectional data analysis of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)-funded health centres. We created a weighted service area social deprivation score for HRSA-funded health centres as a proxy measure for social determinants of health, and then explored adjusted and unadjusted clinical quality measures by weighted service area Social Deprivation Index quartiles for health centres.

Settings

HRSA-funded health centres in the USA.

Participants

Our analysis included a subset of 1161 HRSA-funded health centres serving more than 22 million mostly low-income patients across the country.

Results

Higher levels of social deprivation are associated with statistically significant poorer outcomes for all clinical quality outcome measures (both unadjusted and adjusted), including rates of blood pressure control, uncontrolled diabetes and low birth weight. The adjusted and unadjusted results are mixed for clinical quality process measures as higher levels of social deprivation are associated with better quality for some measures including cervical cancer screening and child immunisation status but worse quality for other such as colorectal cancer screening and early entry into prenatal care.

Conclusions

This research highlights the importance of incorporating community characteristics when evaluating clinical outcomes. We also present an innovative method for capturing health centre service area-level social deprivation and exploring its relationship to health centre clinical quality measures.

Patient-Provider Communication and Adherence to Cholesterol Management Advice: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Survey

High cholesterol is a preventable risk factor for heart disease. This study examines which aspects of patient-provider communication are associated with patient report of increased adherence to cholesterol management advice in a diverse, low-income patient population accessing the health care safety net, using the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey. Patient-provider communication measures included patient report of: how often a provider listened carefully, gave easy-to-understand information, knew important information about the patient's medical history, showed respect, and spent enough time with the patient. Outcome measures were patient report of following provider advice to eat fewer high fat or high cholesterol foods, manage weight, increase physical activity, or take prescribed medicine. In adjusted analyses, when patients perceived their provider always knew their medical history, patients were more likely to report taking prescribed medication (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6, 6.6). Knowledge of medical history (aOR: 2.8, 95% CI: 1.4, 5.8), spending enough time (aOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2, 4.4), and providing easily understandable information (aOR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.0, 4.7) were significantly associated with report of following physical activity advice. Knowledge of medical history (aOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.0, 5.2) and providing easily understandable information (aOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.4, 7.9) were significantly associated with report of following weight management advice. This study indicates different components of patient-provider communication influence patient adherence to lifestyle modification advice and medication prescription. These results suggest a tailored approach to optimize the impact of patient-provider communication on cholesterol management advice adherence.

Examining trends in substance use disorder capacity and service delivery by Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centers: A time series regression analysis

Background

The opioid epidemic and subsequent mortality is a national concern in the U.S. The burden of this problem is disproportionately high among low-income and uninsured populations who are more likely to experience unmet need for substance use services. We assessed the impact of two Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) substance use disorder (SUD) service capacity grants on SUD staffing and service use in HRSA -funded health centers (HCs).

Methods and findings

We conducted cross-sectional analyses of the Uniform Data System (UDS) from 2010 to 2017 to assess HC (n = 1,341) trends in capacity measured by supply of SUD and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) providers, utilization of SUD and MAT services, and panel size and visit ratio measured by the number of patients seen and visits delivered by SUD and MAT providers. We merged mortality and national survey data to incorporate SUD mortality and SUD treatment services availability, respectively. From 2010 to 2015, 20% of HC organizations had any SUD staff, had an average of one full-time equivalent SUD employee, and did not report an increase in SUD patients or SUD services. SUD capacity grew significantly in 2016 (43%) and 2017 (22%). MAT capacity growth was measured only in 2016 and 2017 and grew by 29% between those years. Receipt of both supplementary grants increased the probability of any SUD capacity by 35% (95% CI: 26%, 44%) and service use, but decreased the probability of SUD visit ratio by 680 visits (95% CI: -1,013, -347), compared to not receiving grants.

Conclusions

The significant growth in HC specialized SUD capacity is likely due to supplemental SUD-specific HRSA grants and may vary by structure of grants. Expanding SUD capacity in HCs is an important step in increasing SUD access for low income and uninsured populations broadly and for patients of these organizations.

The role of dentist supply, need for care and long-term continuity in Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centres in the United States

OBJECTIVES

Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centres (HCs) are an important source of dental services for low-income and vulnerable patients in the United States. About 82% of HCs in 2018 had dental workforce, but it is unclear whether this workforce meets the oral health needs of HC patients. Thus, we first examined (a) whether dental workforce was associated with any dental visits vs none and (b) whether HC patients with any visits were more likely to have a visit at the HC vs elsewhere. We then examined (c) if need for oral health care and long-term continuity at the HC were associated with dental visits and visits at the HC.

METHODS

This study used the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey, a nationally representative study of US HC patients, and the 2013 Uniform Data System, an administrative dataset of HC characteristics. We also used the 2013 Area Health Resource File to measure the contribution of local supply of dentists. We included working-age adult patients (n = 5006) and used multilevel structural equation models with Poisson specification.

RESULTS

Larger dental workforce at the HC was significantly associated with 1% higher likelihood (relative risk [RR]: 1.01, 1.00-1.02) of any visits and 10% higher likelihood of a visit at the HC among those with a visit (RR: 1.10, 1.06-1.14). Patient self-reported oral health need was positively associated with 157% higher likelihood of dental visits (RR: 2.57, 2.29-2.88), and 42% higher likelihood of dental visit at the HC vs elsewhere (RR: 1.42, 1.19-1.69). Long-term continuity with the HC was not significantly associated with likelihood of dental visits, but was associated with 26% higher likelihood of visits at the HC among those who had any visits (RR: 1.26, 1.02-1.56).

DISCUSSION

The findings highlight the potential impact of increasing dental workforce at HCs to promote access; the high level of need for oral health care at HCs; and the increased effort required to promote access among newer patients who may be less familiar with the availability of oral health care at HCs. Together, these findings reinforce the importance of addressing barriers of use of oral health services among low-income and uninsured patients.

Enabling Services Improve Access To Care, Preventive Services, And Satisfaction Among Health Center Patients

Enabling services address a combination of social determinants of health and barriers to access to primary care and are intended to reduce health disparities. They include care coordination; health education; transportation; and assistance with obtaining food, shelter, and benefits. Empirical evidence of enabling services' potential contribution to health outcomes is limited, which impedes their widespread dissemination. We examined how the receipt of enabling services influenced patient health care outcomes based on a nationally representative survey of patients served in 2014 at health centers funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration. We compared enabling services users and nonusers and found that enabling services were associated with 1.92 more health center visits, an 11.78-percentage-point higher probability of getting a routine checkup, a 16.34-percentage-point higher likelihood of having had a flu shot, and a 7.63-percentage-point higher probability of patient satisfaction. Our results confirm the value of systematic delivery of enabling services in reducing access barriers and improving patient satisfaction.

Improving Access to Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder in High-Need Areas: The Role of HRSA Health Centers

Introduction

Despite the opioid epidemic adversely affecting areas across the U.S. for more than two decades and increasing evidence that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is effective for patients with opioid use disorder (OUD), access to treatment is still limited. The limited access to treatment holds true in the Appalachia region despite being disproportionately affected by the crisis, particularly in rural, central Appalachia.

Purpose

This research identifies opportunities for health centers located in high-need areas based on drug poisoning mortality to better meet MAT care gaps. We also provide an in-depth look at health center MAT capacity relative to need in the Appalachia region.

Methods

The analysis included county-level drug poisoning mortality data (2013-2015) from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and Health Center Program Awardee and Look-Alike data (2017) on the number of providers with a DATA waiver to provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and the number of patients receiving MAT for the U.S. Several geospatial methods were used including an Empirical Bayes approach to estimate drug poisoning mortality, excess risk maps to identify outliers, and the Local Moran's I tool to identify clusters of high drug poisoning mortality counties.

Results

High-need counties were disproportionately located in the Appalachia region. More than 6 in 10 health centers in high-need counties have the potential to expand MAT delivery to patients.

Implications

The results indicate an opportunity to increase health center capacity for providing treatment for opioid use disorder in high-need areas, particularly in central and northern Appalachia.

Racial/ethnic variations in weight management among patients with overweight and obesity status who are served by health centres

This study sought to examine racial/ethnic variations in receipt of provider recommendations on weight loss, patient adherence, perception of weight, attempts at weight loss and actual weight loss among patients with overweight/obesity status at Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centres (HC). We used a 2014 nationally representative survey of adult HC patients with overweight/obesity status (PwOW/OB) last year and reported the HC was their usual source of care (n = 3517). We used logistic regression models to assess the interaction of race/ethnicity and having obesity in (1) provider recommendations of diet or (2) exercise, (3) patient adherence to diet or (4) exercise, (5) perceptions of weight and (6) weight loss attempts. We used a multinomial regression model to examine (7) weight loss or gain vs no change and a linear regression model to evaluate (8) percent weight change. We found Black PwOW/OB (OR = 1.65) experienced greater odds of receiving diet recommendations than Whites. We found limited racial/ethnic disparities in adherence. Black (OR = 0.41), Hispanic/Latino (OR = 0.45), and American Indian/Alaska Native (OR = 0.41) PwOW/OB had lower odds of perceiving themselves as overweight. Black (OR = 1.68) and Hispanic (OR = 1.98) PwOW/OB had a greater odds of reporting weight gain, and Asian PwOW/OB (OR = 0.42) had lower odds of reporting weight loss than Whites. Disparities in provider diet recommendations among Blacks and Hispanics indicated the importance of personalized weight management recommendations. Understanding underlying reasons for discordance between self-perception and observed weight among different groups is needed. Overall increase in weight, despite current interventions, should be addressed through targeted racially/ethnically appropriate approaches.

Impact of oral health service expansion funding at health centers in the United States

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the impact of Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) investment in oral health through the HRSA FY16 Oral Health Service Expansion (OHSE) funding on workforce, access, and quality in health centers (HCs) from 2015 to 2017.

METHODS

Analyses were conducted using data from the Uniform Data System from 2015 and 2017, and the 2015 Area Health Resource File. Change in indicators of oral health workforce, access, and quality of care by the receipt of OHSE funding received by HCs in 2016 were examined. Regression models for 1,345 HCs were developed to conduct a difference-in-difference analyses of the comparative change from 2015 to 2017 in the dependent variables among OHSE and non-OHSE awardees while controlling for confounders.

RESULTS

OHSE awardees showed a significant difference in the oral health workforce with a higher mean number increase by 0.6 full time equivalent (FTE) dentists, 0.4 dental hygienists, 1.1 dental assistants, and 2.3 for other dental staff compared to non-OHSE awardees. Compared to non-OHSE awardees, OHSE awardees showed a mean increase of 712 dental patients served who received 1,402 dental visits, representing a 9-percentage point increase in the percentage of HCs that had an oral health program and a 3-percentage point increase in the ratio of dental patients to total patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Funding dedicated to oral health service expansion in HCs may result in outcomes ranging from increasing workforce to reduction in access and financial barriers. Retrospective analysis demonstrated improved capacity for oral healthcare delivery attributable to HRSA support to HCs.

Influenza vaccination among U.S. pediatric patients receiving care from federally funded health centers

INTRODUCTION

During the 2018-2019 influenza season, vaccination coverage among U.S. children was 62.6%. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of influenza vaccinations among pediatric patients seen in U.S. health centers, and to explore potential disparities in vaccination coverage among subpopulations. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, these health centers provide primary and preventive care to underserved and vulnerable individuals and families in order to reduce health disparities based on economic, geographic, or cultural barriers.

METHODS

Cross-sectional data, analyzed in 2019, came from the most recent waves of the Health Center Patient Survey (2009, 2014). The sample consisted of children ages 2-17 years receiving care from HRSA-funded health centers. The outcome of interest was self- or parent-reported receipt of influenza vaccine in the past year. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted prevalence rate ratios for the association between demographic characteristics (age, sex, race/ethnicity, poverty level, urban/rural residence, geographic region), health-related variables (receipt of well-child check-up, asthma diagnosis), and influenza vaccination.

RESULTS

Influenza vaccination coverage among pediatric health center patients increased from 46.6% in 2009 to 67.8% in 2014. In the adjusted model for 2014, there were few statistically significant differences in vaccination coverage among subpopulation groups, however American Indian/Alaska Native children had 31% increased vaccination coverage compared with non-Hispanic White children (aPRR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.02-1.60) and children living in the South had 26% decreased vaccination coverage compared with those living in the Northeast (aPRR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.54-0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Influenza vaccination coverage among pediatric health center patients in 2014 exceeded the national average (as of 2018-2019), and few differences were found among at-risk subpopulations. HRSA-funded health centers are well-positioned to further increase the vaccination rate among children living in underserved communities.

Preventive Care and Chronic Disease Management Comparison of Appalachian and Non-Appalachian Community Health Centers in the United States

Introduction

The Appalachian region is often characterized by poor health outcomes and economic depression. Health centers (HCs) are community-based and patient-directed organizations that deliver comprehensive, culturally competent, high-quality primary healthcare services in high need areas, including Appalachia, where economic, geographic, or cultural factors can hinder access to healthcare services.

Purpose

The study compares the clinical quality performance in preventive care and chronic disease management between Appalachian HCs and their non-Appalachian counterparts.

Methods

Using 2015 Uniform Data System (UDS) health center data, bivariate and multivariate linear regression analyses examine the association of Appalachian HC with performance on preventive and chronic care clinical quality measures (CQMs).

Results

In the multivariate analysis, patients served at Appalachian HCs are more likely to receive colorectal cancer screening and pediatric weight assessment and counseling than at non-Appalachian HCs. No statistically significant differences in performance observed among other CQMs. The percentage of Medicaid patients and total physician FTEs have positive associations with preventive care in colorectal and cervical cancer screening, pediatric weight assessment and counseling, and tobacco screening and cessation intervention as well as chronic disease management of aspirin therapy for ischemic vascular disease and hypertension control in the multivariate model.

Implications

Overall Appalachian HCs perform as well as or better than non-Appalachian HCs in delivering preventive and chronic care services. Further examination of clinical quality improvement programs, insurance payer mix, and practice size among Appalachian HCs could advance the replication of clinical quality success for clinics in similar underserved communities.

Impact of health information technology optimization on clinical quality performance in health centers: A national cross-sectional study

Background

Delivery of preventive care and chronic disease management are key components of a high functioning primary care practice. Health Centers (HCs) funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) have been delivering affordable and accessible primary health care to patients in underserved communities for over fifty years. This study examines the association between health center organization’s health information technology (IT) optimization and clinical quality performance.

Methods and findings

Using 2016 Uniform Data System (UDS) data, we performed bivariate and multivariate analyses to study the association of Meaningful Use (MU) attestation as a proxy for health IT optimization, patient centered medical home (PCMH) recognition status, and practice size on performance of twelve electronically specified clinical quality measures (eCQMs). Bivariate analysis demonstrated performance of eleven out of the twelve preventive and chronic care eCQMs was higher among HCs attesting to MU Stage 2 or above. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that Stage 2 MU or above, PCMH status, and larger practice size were positively associated with performance on cancer screening, smoking cessation counseling and pediatric weight assessment and counseling eCQMs.

Conclusions

Organizational advancement in MU stages has led to improved quality of care that augments HCs patient care capacity for disease prevention, health promotion, and chronic care management. However, rapid technological advancement in health care acts as a potential source of disparity, as considerable resources needed to optimize the electronic health record (EHR) and to undertake PCMH transformation are found more commonly among larger HCs practices. Smaller practices may lack the financial, human and educational assets to implement and to maintain EHR technology. Accordingly, targeted approaches to support small HCs practices in leveraging economies of scale for health IT optimization, clinical decision support, and clinical workflow enhancements are critical for practices to thrive in the dynamic value-based payment environment.

Mental health status among women of reproductive age from underserved communities in the United States and the associations between depression and physical health. A cross-sectional study

Background

In 2017, 46.6 million U.S. adults aged 18 or older self-reported as having mental illness of which 52.0% or 24.2 million are women age 18–49. Perinatal depression and anxiety are linked to adverse outcomes concerning pregnancy, maternal functioning, and healthy child development.

Methods and findings

Using the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey (HCPS), the objectives of the cross-sectional study are to assess the prevalence of self-reported mental health conditions among female patients of reproductive age and to examine the association between depression and physical health. Physical health conditions of interest included self-rated health, obesity, hypertension, smoking, and diabetes, which all have established associations with potential pregnancy complications and fetal health. The study found 40.8% of patients reported depression; 28.8% reported generalized anxiety; and 15.2% met the criteria for serious psychological distress on the Kessler 6 scale. Furthermore, patients with depression had two to three times higher odds of experiencing co-occurring physical health conditions.

Conclusions

This study expands the discourse on maternal mental health, throughout the preconception, post-partum, and inter-conception care periods to improve understanding of the inter-correlated physical and mental health issues that could impact pregnancy outcomes and life course trajectory. From 2014 to 2018, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has supported investments of nearly $750 million to improve and expand access to mental health and substance use disorder services for prevention, treatment, health education and awareness through comprehensive primary care integration. Moving forward, HRSA will implement strategic training and technical assistance (T/TA) framework that is designed to accelerate the adoption of science driven solutions in primary care in addressing depression for patients with co-occurring chronic conditions and advancing positive maternal outcomes.

Organizational Factors Associated with Disparities in Cervical and Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates in Community Health Centers

INTRODUCTION

Community health centers provide care to underserved populations least likely to adhere to cancer screening guidelines, but vary in their ability to ensure eligible patients are identified and screened. This study examines organizational factors associated with cervical and colorectal cancer screening rates among health centers funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

METHODS

Data were drawn from the 2015 Uniform Data System and analyzed using negative binomial regression.

RESULTS

On average, 53% of eligible health center patients were screened for cervical cancer and 37% for colorectal cancer. Organizational characteristics positively associated with cancer screening rates include provider-patient staffing ratios, electronic health record status, percentage revenue from public capitated managed care, and local primary care provider availability. Percentage of homeless patients was negatively associated with screening.

CONCLUSION

Efforts to improve cancer screening among underserved populations should address organizational factors that may contribute to disparities in screening uptake.

Telehealth In Health Centers: Key Adoption Factors, Barriers, And Opportunities

Telehealth services have the potential to improve access to care, especially in rural or urban areas with scarce health care resources. Despite the potential benefits, telehealth has not been fully adopted by health centers. This study examined factors associated with and barriers to telehealth use by federally funded health centers. We analyzed data for 2016 from the Uniform Data System using a mixed-methods approach. Our findings suggest that rural location, operational factors, patient demographic characteristics, and reimbursement policies influence health centers' decisions about using telehealth. Cost, reimbursement, and technical issues were described as major barriers. Medicaid reimbursement policies promoting live video and store-and-forward services were associated with a greater likelihood of telehealth adoption. Many health centers were implementing telehealth or exploring its use. Our findings identified areas that policy makers can address to achieve greater telehealth adoption by health centers.

Exploring racial/ethnic disparities in hypertension care among patients served by health centers in the United States

Some racial/ethnic minorities are more likely to have hypertension and experience increased hypertension-related morbidity and mortality compared to whites. Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centers care for over 27 million patients, 62 percent of whom are racial/ethnic minorities. We assessed the presence of racial/ethnic disparities in (a) hypertension management and (b) hypertension outcomes among health center patients. We used data from the 2014 Health Center Patient Survey and performed multilevel logistic regression models to predict hypertension management counseling, patient adherence to counseling and medication regimen, management plan receipt, high blood pressure at last clinical visit, confidence in hypertension self-management, and hypertension-related emergency department (ED) episodes or hospitalizations in the past year. We controlled for patient characteristics including age, sex, education, nativity, health behaviors, health care access, and comorbidities. We found significantly higher odds of diet counseling (African Americans, OR: 1.87; Asian Americans, OR: 3.02, AIAN, OR: 2.01), reduced sodium intake (African American, OR: 2.42), and adherence to exercise counseling (African American, OR: 3.52; Asian Americans, OR: 2.93). We also found lower odds of taking hypertension control medication (AIAN, OR: 0.50) and higher odds of hypertension-related ED visits (African Americans, OR: 3.61, AIAN, OR: 5.31). These results highlight the success of health centers in managing hypertension by race/ethnicity but found adverse hypertension outcomes for some groups. Racial/ethnically tailored efforts might be required to manage hypertension and improve outcomes.

Assessing the Impact of Patient-Centered Medical Home Principles on Hypertension Outcomes Among Patients of HRSA-Funded Health Centers

BACKGROUND

Millions of Americans have uncontrolled hypertension and are low-income or uninsured populations. Health Resources and Services Administration-funded health centers (HCs) are primary providers of care to these patients and a majority have adopted the patient-centered medical home (PCMH). PCMH includes principles of care coordination or integration and care management-support important to the treatment of hypertension. We examined whether the receipt of PCMH concordant care by HC patients improved hypertension outcomes.

METHODS

We used a nationally representative survey of adult HC patients with hypertension (n = 2,280) conducted between October 2014 and April 2015. We included data from the 2013 and 2014 Uniform Data System to include characteristics of the HCs where these patients received their care. Our outcome measures included flu shots, number of primary care visits, normal blood pressure at last visit, emergency department (ED) visits, confidence in self-care, and compliance with provider recommendations. The primary independent variables were (i) whether the HC coordinated and referred patients to specialists; (ii) provided counseling, health education, coaching, treatment plans, and advice on hypertension control; and (iii) helped patients to obtain government benefits, medical transportation, and basic needs such as housing and food. Logistic and negative binomial multivariate regression models were performed.

RESULTS

Hypertension-focused coaching was associated with normal blood pressure at last visit (odds ratio (OR) = 1.47) and fewer ED visits (incidence rate ratio = 0.81). Behavioral health counseling was associated with increased self-efficacy in self-care management (OR = 3.20).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that increased focus on these practices may lead to better hypertension outcomes among patients who are low-income and uninsured populations.

Colorectal cancer screening at US community health centers: Examination of sociodemographic disparities and association with patient-provider communication

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates are low among underserved populations. High-quality patient-physician communication potentially influences patients' willingness to undergo CRC screening. Community health centers (HCs) provide comprehensive primary health care to underserved populations. This study's objectives were to ascertain national CRC screening rates and to explore the relations between sociodemographic characteristics and patient-provider communication on the receipt of CRC screening among HC patients.

METHODS

Using 2014 Health Center Patient Survey data, bivariate and multivariate analyses examined the association of sociodemographic variables (sex, race/ethnicity, age, geography, preferred language, household income, insurance, and employment status) and patient-provider communication with the receipt of CRC screening.

RESULTS

Patients between the ages of 65 and 75 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33-4.64) and patients not in the labor force (aOR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.37-3.94) had higher odds of receiving CRC screening, whereas patients who were uninsured (aOR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.18-0.61) and patients who were non-English-speaking (aOR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.18-0.99) had lower odds. Patient-provider communication was not associated with the receipt of CRC screening.

CONCLUSIONS

The CRC screening rate for HC patients was 57.9%, whereas the rate was 65.1% according to the 2012 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and 58.2% according to the 2013 National Health Interview Survey. The high ratings of patient-provider communication, regardless of the screening status, suggest strides toward a patient-centered medical home practice transformation that will assist in a positive patient experience. Addressing the lack of insurance, making culturally and linguistically appropriate patient education materials available, and training clinicians and care teams in cultural competency are critical for increasing future CRC screening rates. Cancer 2017;123:4185-4192. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

Preventive Counseling Services during Primary Care Visits: A Comparison of Health Centers versus Other Physician Offices

We compared preventive counseling services provided by health centers versus other physician offices. Cross-sectional data came from the 2008 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey, including 25,177 patient visits in physician offices and 3,345 patient visits in health centers. Despite serving disproportionately more vulnerable patients, health centers provided comparable rates of preventive counseling services, compared with other physician offices: health education (39% vs. 36%), disease management (34% vs. 41%), asthma education (21% vs. 13%), tobacco education (19% for both), and weight reduction education (6% vs. 9%) (p>.05 for all). Adjusted analyses showed no association between health care setting and preventive counseling.

Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition and Clinical Performance in U.S. Community Health Centers

INTRODUCTION

America's community health centers (HCs) are uniquely poised to implement the patient-centered medical home (PCMH) model, as they are effective in providing comprehensive, accessible, and continuous primary care. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between PCMH recognition in HCs and clinical performance.

METHODS

Data for this study came from the 2012 Uniform Data System (UDS) as well as a survey of HCs' PCMH recognition achievement. The dependent variables included all 16 measures of clinical performance collected through UDS. Control measures included HC patient, provider, and practice characteristics. Bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regressions were conducted to compare clinical performance between HCs with and without PCMH recognition.

FINDINGS

Health centers that receive PCMH recognition generally performed better on clinical measures than HCs without PCMH recognition. After controlling for HC patient, provider, and practice characteristics, HCs with PCMH recognition reported significantly better performance on asthma-related pharmacologic therapy, diabetes control, pap testing, prenatal care, and tobacco cessation intervention.

CONCLUSION

This study establishes a positive association between PCMH recognition and clinical performance in HCs. If borne out in future longitudinal studies, policy makers and practices should advance the PCMH model as a strategy to further enhance the quality of primary care.

Health Center Patients' Insurance Status and Healthcare Use Prior to Implementation of the Affordable Care Act

INTRODUCTION

U.S. health centers provide primary and preventive care to underserved populations, including low-income and uninsured patients. The purpose of this study is to examine patterns of publicly funded health center use according to patient insurance status (private, public, none), prior to implementation of the Affordable Care Act.

METHODS

National data came from the 2009 Health Center Patient Survey, and were analyzed in 2013. Descriptive analysis of health center patient insurance coverage and health center utilization variables was conducted, followed by adjusted multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

About 91% of uninsured patients received at least half their annual healthcare visits at a health center, and 86% had at least one usual source of care that included a health center; these rates were not significantly different from those for publicly or privately insured patients. About half of uninsured patients (48%) had long tenures at the health center (≥3 years since first visit), not significantly different from the publicly insured (52%), but lower than the privately insured (63%, p<0.01). Uninsured patients highlighted affordability as the main reason for visiting a health center, whereas insured patients emphasized convenient location and quality of care.

CONCLUSIONS

Insured patients used health centers for the majority of their care, and in similar proportions to their uninsured counterparts. The primary motivation for visiting a health center differed based on insurance type. Future studies should be able to examine whether health center demand across insurance categories follows a similar pattern following the Affordable Care Act insurance coverage expansions.

Access to mental health services among patients at health centers and factors associated with unmet needs

Cross-sectional 2009 Health Center Patient Survey data describe the mental health status of health center patients, utilization of mental health services, and factors associated with unmet need for mental health treatment. One in five health center patients accessed mental health services in the past year, and over half of the patients who received counseling received this treatment at a health center. Patients who were unable to access mental health care cited affordability as a concern. Unmet need for mental health treatment was reported by one in three patients. Multivariate analysis found that the odds of reporting unmet need were higher for patients who lacked a usual source of care and patients with serious mental illness.

Challenges and Opportunities to Improve Cervical Cancer Screening Rates in US Health Centers through Patient-Centered Medical Home Transformation

Over the last 50 years, the incidence of cervical cancer has dramatically decreased. However, health disparities in cervical cancer screening (CCS) persist for women from racial and ethnic minorities and those residing in rural and poor communities. For more than 45 years, federally funded health centers (HCs) have been providing comprehensive, culturally competent, and quality primary health care services to medically underserved communities and vulnerable populations. To enhance the quality of care and to ensure more women served at HCs are screened for cervical cancer, over eight HCs received funding to support patient-centered medical home (PCMH) transformation with goals to increase CCS rates. The study conducted a qualitative analysis using Atlas.ti software to describe the barriers and challenges to CCS and PCMH transformation, to identify potential solutions and opportunities, and to examine patterns in barriers and solutions proposed by HCs. Interrater reliability was assessed using Cohen's Kappa. The findings indicated that HCs more frequently described patient-level barriers to CCS, including demographic, cultural, and health belief/behavior factors. System-level barriers were the next commonly cited, particularly failure to use the full capability of electronic medical records (EMRs) and problems coordinating with external labs or providers. Provider-level barriers were least frequently cited.

Overweight/obesity and weight-related treatment among patients in U.S. federally supported health centers

BACKGROUND

We obtained the prevalence of overweight/obesity, weight-loss attempts, and weight-related counseling and treatment among U.S. adults who sought care in federally funded community health centers. We investigated whether racial/ethnic and gender disparities existed for these measures.

METHODS

Data came from the 2009 Health Center Patient Survey. Measures included body mass index (BMI), self-perceived weight, weight-loss attempts, being told of a weight problem, receipt of weight-related counseling, nutritionist referrals, weight-loss prescriptions, and cholesterol checks. We conducted bivariate analyses to determine distributions by race/ethnicity and gender, then ran logistic regressions to examine the effects of several sociodemographic factors on weight-loss attempts and on being told of a weight problem.

RESULTS

Overall, 76% of adult patients seen in health centers were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m(2)); 55% of overweight patients, and 87% of obese patients correctly perceived themselves as overweight. There were no racial/ethnic differences in BMI categories or self-perceptions of weight. Females were more likely than males to be obese and also more likely to perceive themselves as overweight. About 60% of overweight/obese patients reported trying to lose weight in the past year. There were no racial/ethnic disparities favoring non-Hispanic White patients in weight-related treatment. Women were more likely than men to receive referrals to a nutritionist or weight-loss prescriptions. Overweight/obese patients had higher adjusted odds of a past-year weight-loss attempt if they perceived themselves as overweight (OR = 3.30, p < 0.0001), were female (OR = 1.95, p < 0.05), African American (OR = 3.34, p < 0.05), or Hispanic/Latino (OR = 2.14, p < 0.05). Overweight/obese patients had higher odds of being told they had a weight problem if they were Hispanic/Latino (OR = 2.56, p < 0.05) or if they had two or more chronic conditions (OR = 2.77, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients seen in community health centers have high rates of overweight and obesity, even higher than the general U.S. population. Efforts to address weight problems during primary care visits are needed to reduce the burden of obesity and its sequellae among health center patients.

Reducing disparities in access to primary care and patient satisfaction with care: the role of health centers

This paper examined disparities in access to and satisfaction with primary care among patients of different racial/ethnic groups and insurance coverage, in health centers and the nation overall. Data came from the 2009 Health Center Patient Survey and 2009 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Study outcomes included usual source of care, type of usual source of care, satisfaction with provider office hours, and satisfaction with overall care. Health center patients were more racially and ethnically diverse than national patients, and health center patients were more likely than national patients to be uninsured or publicly insured. No significant health care disparities in access to care existed among patients from different racial/ethnic and insurance groups among health centers, unlike low-income patients nationwide or the U.S. population in general. Additional focus on the uninsured, in health centers and other health care settings nationwide, is needed to enhance satisfaction with care among these patients.

Effects of patient-centered medical home attributes on patients' perceptions of quality in federally supported health centers

PURPOSE

We sought to assess patients' ratings of patient-centered medical home (PCMH) attributes and overall quality of care within federally supported health centers.

METHODS

Data were collected through the 2009 Health Center Patient Survey (n = 4,562), which consisted of in-person interviews and included a nationally representative sample of patients seen in health centers. Quality measures included patients' perceptions of overall quality of services, perceptions of quality of clinician advice/treatment, and likelihood of referring friends and relatives to the health center. PCMH attributes included (1) access to care getting to health center, (2) access to care during visit, (3) patient-centered communication with health care clinicians, (4) patient-centered communication with support staff, (5) self-management support for chronic conditions, (6) self-management support for behavioral risks, and (7) comprehensive preventive care. Bivariate analysis and logistic regressions were used to examine associations between patients' perceptions of PCMH attributes and patient-reported quality of care.

RESULTS

Eighty-four percent of patients reported excellent/very good overall quality of services, 81% reported excellent/very good quality of clinician care, and 84% were very likely to refer friends and relatives. Higher patient ratings on the access to care and patient-centered communication attributes were associated with higher odds of patient-reported high quality of care on the 3 outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

More than 80% of patients perceived high quality of care in health centers. PCMH attributes related to access to care and communication were associated with greater likelihood of patients reporting high-quality care.

Health status and health care experiences among homeless patients in federally supported health centers: findings from the 2009 patient survey

OBJECTIVE

To examine health status and health care experiences of homeless patients in health centers and to compare them with their nonhomeless counterparts.

DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING

Nationally representative data from the 2009 Health Center Patient Survey.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional analyses were limited to adults (n = 2,683). We compared sociodemographic characteristics, health conditions, access to health care, and utilization of services among homeless and nonhomeless patients. We also examined the independent effect of homelessness on health care access and utilization, as well as factors that influenced homeless patients' health care experiences.

DATA COLLECTION

Computer-assisted personal interviews were conducted with health center patients.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Homeless patients had worse health status-lifetime burden of chronic conditions, mental health problems, and substance use problems-compared with housed respondents. In adjusted analyses, homeless patients had twice the odds as housed patients of having unmet medical care needs in the past year (OR = 1.98, 95 percent CI: 1.24-3.16) and twice the odds of having an ED visit in the past year (OR = 2.00, 95 percent CI: 1.37-2.92).

CONCLUSIONS

There is an ongoing need to focus on the health issues that disproportionately affect homeless populations. Among health center patients, homelessness is an independent risk factor for unmet medical needs and ED use.

Primary care and public health activities in select US health centers: documenting successes, barriers, and lessons learned

OBJECTIVES

We examined primary care and public health activities among federally funded health centers, to better understand their successes, the barriers encountered, and the lessons learned.

METHODS

We used qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data from 9 health centers, stratified by administrative division, urban-rural location, and race/ethnicity of patients served. Descriptive data on patient and institutional characteristics came from the Uniform Data System, which collects data from all health centers annually. We administered questionnaires and conducted phone interviews with key informants.

RESULTS

Health centers performed well on primary care coordination and community orientation scales and reported conducting many essential public health activities. We identified specific needs for integrating primary care and public health: (1) more funding for collaborations and for addressing the social determinants of health, (2) strong leadership to champion collaborations, (3) trust building among partners, with shared missions and clear expectations of responsibilities, and (4) alignment and standardization of data collection, analysis, and exchange.

CONCLUSIONS

Lessons learned from health centers should inform strategies to better integrate public health with primary care.

Primary care and public health activities in select U.S. health centers: documenting successes, barriers, and lessons learned

PURPOSE

The goal of the current study was to examine primary care and public health activities among federally funded health centers, to better understand their successes, barriers encountered, and lessons learned.

METHODS

Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect data from nine health centers, stratified by administrative division, urban-rural location, and race/ethnicity of patients served. Descriptive data on patient and institutional characteristics came from the Uniform Data System, which collects data from all health centers annually. Questionnaires were administered and phone interviews were conducted with key informants.

RESULTS

Health centers performed well on primary care coordination and community orientation scales and reported conducting many essential public health activities. Specific needs were identified for integrating primary care and public health: (1) more funding for collaborations and for addressing the social determinants of health, (2) strong leadership to champion collaborations, (3) trust-building among partners, with shared missions and clear expectations of responsibilities, and (4) alignment and standardization of data collection, analysis, and exchange.

CONCLUSIONS

Lessons learned from health centers should inform strategies to better integrate public health with primary care.

Clinical quality performance in U.S. health centers

OBJECTIVE

To describe current clinical quality among the nation's community health centers and to examine health center characteristics associated with performance excellence.

DATA SOURCES

National data from the 2009 Uniform Data System.

DATA COLLECTION/EXTRACTION METHODS

Health centers reviewed patient records and reported aggregate data to the Uniform Data System.

STUDY DESIGN

Six measures were examined: first-trimester prenatal care, childhood immunization completion, Pap tests, low birth weight, controlled hypertension, and controlled diabetes. The top 25 percent performing centers were compared with lower performing (bottom 75 percent) centers on these measures. Logistic regressions were utilized to assess the impact of patient, provider, and institutional characteristics on health center performance.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Clinical care and outcomes among health centers were generally comparable to national averages. For instance, 67 percent of pregnant patients received timely prenatal care (national = 68 percent), 69 percent of children achieved immunization completion (national = 67 percent), and 63 percent of hypertensive patients had blood pressure under control (national = 48 percent). Depending on the measure, centers with more uninsured patients were less likely to do well, while centers with more physicians and enabling service providers were more likely to do well.

CONCLUSIONS

Health centers provide quality care at rates comparable to national averages. Performance may be improved by increasing insurance coverage among patients and increasing the ratios of physicians and enabling service providers to patients.

Talking Story

Relatively little attention has been paid in the literature to strategies promoting the health of Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NHPI) men. To fill this void, a Native Hawaiian cancer survivor and a Marshallese minister in Orange County, California, founded the Kane Group to promote men’s health information and support. This group is comprised of 10 to 15 NHPI men, ages 35 to 83, with a diverse background of experiences in the U.S. healthcare system and health conditions, including multiple site cancer survivors and/or co-morbidity and chronic condition, like high blood pressure, diabetes. The Kane Group provides social support and engages in discussions, using the island tradition of “talk story”, to relate a variety of men’s health issues from prostate cancer to physical fitness to end-of-life decision making in a supportive and safe environment. The group weaves Pacific Islander culture and values into the process and conduct of the support groups. This community commentary describes the innovative strategies, successes, and challenges that emerged with the development of the group that were designed to celebrate Pacific Islander men’s health, provide information, fellowship, and support for the many who are facing health crises.

Talking Story: Using Culture to Educate Pacific Islander Men about Health and Aging

Relatively little attention has been paid in the literature to strategies promoting the health of Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander (NHPI) men. To fill this void, a Native Hawaiian cancer survivor and a Marshallese minister in Orange County, California, founded the Kane Group to promote men's health information and support. This group is comprised of 10 to 15 NHPI men, ages 35 to 83, with a diverse background of experiences in the U.S. healthcare system and health conditions, including multiple site cancer survivors and/or co-morbidity and chronic condition, like high blood pressure, diabetes. The Kane Group provides social support and engages in discussions, using the island tradition of "talk story", to relate a variety of men's health issues from prostate cancer to physical fitness to end-of-life decision making in a supportive and safe environment. The group weaves Pacific Islander culture and values into the process and conduct of the support groups. This community commentary describes the innovative strategies, successes, and challenges that emerged with the development of the group that were designed to celebrate Pacific Islander men's health, provide information, fellowship, and support for the many who are facing health crises.

Developing a community-based collaboration to reduce cancer health disparities among Pacific Islanders in California

Cancer is a leading cause of death for Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States, but education and research efforts addressing the needs ofPacific Islanders in the continental U.S. is sparse. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of a community-based participatory research network dedicated to addressing cancer health disparities among Chamorros, Marshallese, Native Hawaiians, Samoans and Tongans in Southern California. Community-based organizations (CBO) comprise the focus of the network, and their efforts have included increasing cancer-related awareness in their communities, developing capacities regarding cancer control, and initiating collaborative research efforts with academic partners. First year processes and outcomes are described, and specific examples are given from two CBO partners.

Asthma among California's children, adults and the elderly: a geographic look by legislative districts

Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing; it has been on the rise in the United States over the past two decades. In California, about three million children and adults who have ever been diagnosed with asthma also experienced asthma symptoms at least once in 2002. This policy brief provides data for California legislative districts to highlight the variation in asthma symptom prevalence for children and adults across the state. Asthma symptom prevalence rates at the district level are estimates created by a small-area methodology, based on rates from the 2001 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS 2001) that are applied to population data from the 2000 Census and 2002 California Department of Finance. This first-of-its-kind sub-county data are relevant for policy makers, advocates, and medical providers to illuminate the problem of asthma throughout California and within local communities.