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Financing geriatric programs in community health centers.
1University of North Texas, Center for Studies in Aging, Denton 76201.
Public Health Reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Community and Migrant Health Centers (C/MHCs) can successfully finance geriatric programs by diversifying funding, tracking costs, marketing services, and collaborating with aging networks. These strategies enhance program visibility and patient care for underserved elderly populations.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Health Services Research
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Community and Migrant Health Centers (C/MHCs) serve medically underserved populations.
- There is a clear need for geriatric programs within C/MHCs.
- Financing comprehensive geriatric programs in C/MHCs presents challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify successful funding techniques for geriatric programs in C/MHCs.
- To examine "good practice" C/MHC geriatric programs.
- To provide guidance on financing geriatric care in underserved areas.
Main Methods:
- Examined 10 "good practice" C/MHC geriatric programs.
- Identified effective funding and operational techniques.
- Analyzed financial strategies and community collaborations.
Main Results:
- Effective techniques include diverse funding sources, accurate cost-per-user data, marketing, user incentives, and community collaboration.
- Cost-per-user data aids in service selection and contract negotiation.
- Collaboration with aging agencies increases patient referrals.
- Specialized services like adult day care improve visibility and utilization.
Conclusions:
- A multi-faceted approach combining financial acumen and community engagement is crucial for financing C/MHC geriatric programs.
- Strategic planning and service development can enhance the sustainability and reach of geriatric care in underserved communities.
- Collaboration with aging networks is vital for expanding services to the elderly.