DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/J859-T743
Defense Date
2011
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Human Genetics
First Advisor
Sarah Elsea
Abstract
The Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) is an emerging model of health care designed to provide a simpler, more effective health care experience. The model places heavy emphasis on the concept of every patient having a "personal physician" who is the point of access for all health care needs and concerns. The personal physician integrates all relevant health care information to provide the patient with a holistic picture of his health. The supposed benefits of the PCMH model include an improved patient experience, increased effectiveness of care, increased efficiency of care, greater access to care, among others. Only now is evidence beginning to emerge to substantiate those clams. As evidence continues to emerge supporting the PCMH model, one area that warrants further study is how those directly involved in health care perceive this model. Here, a survey was developed to assess the following information among a population of pediatric physicians: understanding of the PCMH model, agreement with PCMH principles, interest in moving to a PCMH-based practice, and what issues are perceived as barriers to PCMH integration. Results suggest that there is a high degree of familiarity with the PCMH model and a high level of agreement with PCMH principles in this population, but that agreement does not correlate with interest in moving one’s practice toward the PCMH model. Data further indicate that issues regarding payment and associated expenses for PCMH integration are universally perceived barriers. On the other hand, a lack of evidentiary support and compatibility issues with HIPAA are not perceived as barriers. Other issues, such as human resource needs, were more likely to be perceived as barriers in one subpopulation versus another. These data suggest a disconnect between PCMH familiarity and PCMH interest in pediatric physicians. Further, while some issues are perceived as barriers to all pediatric physicians, some issues are more likely to be perceived as barriers in one physician subpopulation versus another, and these differences must be recognized and addressed to help ensure success of the PCMH movement.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-13-2011