A model for evaluating the delivery of pediatric primary care services

This evaluation model describes the components used to assess the functioning of Pediatric Resource Centers which provide primary care to high risk children in New York City. These centers are administered by the Medical and Health Research Association of New York City and are funded by the State through the New York City Department of Health. Measurements are made of: accessibility, availability, accountability, productivity and patient volumes, continuity, coordination, and comprehensiveness. Data is collected from the PRC data reporting system, site visits, chart reviews, and fiscal reports. The findings vary considerably among the different centers with compliance to the various assessments, differing not only within a given center but between centers. In spite of some methodological limitations, it is felt that these measurements are effective in pointing out problem areas in the centers and are helpful to the funding agency in focusing on program areas in need of greater support.