Benefits of a coordinated system of community-based health care services for medically underserved children

Abstract

Access to health promotional services for children in the United States (U.S.) has become an issue of critical importance. Fifty percent of the U .S youth of today are at risk for drug and alcohol abuse, STD's, pregnancy, and injury or death from violence or accident. These health related risks often lead to an increase in school_ absenteeism and poor academic performance. The purpose of this study was the measurement of the benefits of improved access to health care for Medicaid eligible children. The academic and medical records of 143 children enrolled in an innovative program providing comprehensive health care services to Medicaid eligible children were reviewed. Demographic data were analyzed to identify any significant characteristics of study participants. Data on utilization of health services, absenteeism, overall health status, and academic performance were analyzed to determine if this population would benefit from improved access to health care .services. Four hypotheses were tested within the context of this study. All were stated in the null form and all were rejected. There was a significant increase in the use of wellness and illness services by participants. There was also a significant increase in the absenteeism rate of participants between Time 1 and 2, and Time 1 and 3. It was anticipated that absenteeism would decline as utilization increased. However, as participant utilization of services increased, absenteeism also increased. It was anticipated that academic performance would improve as utilization of health care services increased. However, academic performance declined as utilization increased. Finally, there was a significant change in the health status scores of participants between Time 2 and 3. In addition, any possible correlation between utilization of services and absenteeism, and utilization of services and academic performance were explored. Findings in this study represent significant changes in this population relative to the variables studied. Both utilization of services and health status improved following one year of enrollment in the Alliance. Absenteeism and academic performance declined for the same time period. Possible rationale for these findings and potential implications were discussed.