Raul Perez Zarate1, Leigh Johnson2, Simon Mogendi3, Carol Hogue4, Veda Johnson5, Julie Gazmararian4. 1. Undergraduate Research Assistant, Emory College of Arts and Sciences, 1762 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322. 2. Mercer University School of Public Health, Emory College of Arts and Sciences, 3078 Clairmont Road, 601, Atlanta, GA, 30329. 3. Emory University School is Medicine, 732 Carlyle Lake, Decatur, GA, 30033. 4. Professor, Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, 30322. 5. Director, PARTNERS for Equity in Child and Adolescent Health, Marcus Professor in General Academics and Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30303.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: School-based health centers (SBHCs) provide opportunities for offering quality service to underserved populations. The objectives of this study were to: (1) document the SBHC process at different locations and evaluate their similarities and differences; (2) explore SBHC clinic staff satisfaction; and (3) identify facilitators and barriers to utilizing SBHCs. METHODS: Three Georgia SBHCs located in either predominantly Caucasian, African American, or Hispanic elementary schools were included in this study. Mixed methods data collection efforts included: (1) observational assessment of each SBHC; (2) interviews with 7 clinic administrators and staff; and (3) focus group discussions (N = 5) with parents of children that do and do not utilize SBHCs. RESULTS: Observational assessments indicated some clinics have more resources available than others. In-depth interviews found that centers are functioning at capacity, with potential for expansion and greater workload. Focus groups revealed that parents are satisfied with services provided, the price of the care, and the convenience of the centers. However, barriers have made utilization difficult for lower income families. CONCLUSIONS: Although most SBHC goals are being met, staff realize that further development and funding must be obtained to meet the needs of their communities.
BACKGROUND: School-based health centers (SBHCs) provide opportunities for offering quality service to underserved populations. The objectives of this study were to: (1) document the SBHC process at different locations and evaluate their similarities and differences; (2) explore SBHC clinic staff satisfaction; and (3) identify facilitators and barriers to utilizing SBHCs. METHODS: Three Georgia SBHCs located in either predominantly Caucasian, African American, or Hispanic elementary schools were included in this study. Mixed methods data collection efforts included: (1) observational assessment of each SBHC; (2) interviews with 7 clinic administrators and staff; and (3) focus group discussions (N = 5) with parents of children that do and do not utilize SBHCs. RESULTS: Observational assessments indicated some clinics have more resources available than others. In-depth interviews found that centers are functioning at capacity, with potential for expansion and greater workload. Focus groups revealed that parents are satisfied with services provided, the price of the care, and the convenience of the centers. However, barriers have made utilization difficult for lower income families. CONCLUSIONS: Although most SBHC goals are being met, staff realize that further development and funding must be obtained to meet the needs of their communities.
Authors: E Kathleen Adams; Veda C Johnson; Carol J Hogue; Daniela Franco-Montoya; Peter J Joski; Jonathan N Hawley Journal: Public Health Rep Date: 2021-08-26 Impact factor: 3.117
Authors: Esther K Adams; Andrea E Strahan; Peter J Joski; Jonathan N Hawley; Veda C Johnson; Carol J Hogue Journal: Am J Prev Med Date: 2020-08-27 Impact factor: 5.043