Keywords

community health centers, performance, quality, underserved, vulnerable populations

 

Authors

  1. Shin, Peter PhD, MPH
  2. Markus, Anne JD, PhD, MHS
  3. Rosenbaum, Sara JD
  4. Sharac, Jessica MPH

Abstract

This study examines the adaptability of standardized performance measurement tools in 3 community-based health centers. Although health centers have considerable experience in the area of performance reporting, they do not currently participate in a national reporting system that is transparent and standardized. The analysis of the data collected from health centers indicates that not only can these safety net providers readily integrate standardized measures, the quality of care being provided compare favorably to national benchmarks. With evidence of solid performance may come the types of financial adjustments essential to permitting health centers to move more decisively into the broader private health insurance markets that may exist in their service areas.