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Health Care Reform: The Safety Net in Rural Communities. Cathy Harding Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved. The Kansas Safety Net. 42 member clinics throughout the state 169,535 patients 475,000 medical, dental & behavioral health patient visits
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Health Care Reform: The Safety Net in Rural Communities Cathy Harding Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved
The Kansas Safety Net • 42 member clinics throughout the state • 169,535 patients • 475,000 medical, dental & behavioral health patient visits • 18 of the 42 safety net clinics are located in rural counties (23 counties) • Represents 42.9% of clinics • Provided care for 41.4% of all patients (70,223)
Comprehensive Care • Quality primary health care • Medical • Dental • Behavioral Health • Chronic disease management • Quality of care
Challenges in Rural Settings • Gaps in geographic locations
Challenges in Rural Settings • Gaps in geographic locations • Workforce
Challenges in Rural Settings • Gaps in geographic locations • Workforce • Increasing need for care
Challenges in Rural Settings • Gaps in geographic locations • Workforce • Increasing need for care • Information Technology
Recommendations • Public-private partnerships • Enhanced reimbursement in rural areas/for primary care practices • Local government/community/hospital assistance • Satellites of larger health systems • Study the allocation of resources in rural areas • Telemedicine/IT
Health Care Reform: The Safety Net in Rural Communities Cathy Harding Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved