Development and implementation of a patient assistance fund: a descriptive study

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Dental Public Health
• Patient Financial Assistance Programs

Background:

• The Roseman University of Health Sciences (RUHS) College of Dental Medicine established a Patient Assistance Fund (PAF) to support disadvantaged patients.
• The fund's development, organization, and outcomes are detailed to offer insights for similar health professions programs.
• This descriptive study focuses on the operational aspects and impact of the PAF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the development, organization, and outcomes of the RUHS College of Dental Medicine's Patient Assistance Fund.
• To provide a model for other health professions programs considering similar patient financial assistance initiatives.
• To assess the effectiveness and impact of student-managed financial aid for dental patients.

Main Methods:

• The study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing quantitative data from the PAF's operational records.
• Qualitative data were collected to evaluate patient experiences with the financial assistance program.
• Student advocates from the D3 and D4 classes presented cases to the PAF board committee.

Main Results:

• A total of 16 student advocates made 26 presentations, requesting $47,428.00 for patient treatment plans.
• Approved procedures and treatment plans amounted to $21,278.36, with an average of $818.40 per patient.
• Both patients and students reported high levels of satisfaction with the program's support and operation.

Conclusions:

• The RUHS College of Dental Medicine's Patient Assistance Fund demonstrates a successful structure for funding, expenditures, and patient services.
• The program's positive outcomes suggest that similar student-managed financial assistance funds can be beneficial in other healthcare professions schools.
• This initiative highlights the potential for dental student involvement in addressing patient financial barriers to care.