Although there are profound political and cultural differences among the New England states, they have been bound by history, demography, and economic realities. This bonding is reflected in regional collaborations on education, economic development, energy, environmental protection, and transportation. Over the past 15 years, public health leaders, voluntary organizations and networks of health care providers have been extending these collaborations to improve the health and well being of New Englanders.
Discussion will focus on health policy and planning that is currently ongoing in the areas of children with special needs and access to health care for the migrant and seasonal farmworker populations in New England. In each case, presenters will showcase how regional collaboration has enhanced capacity to assess and improve the quality of health care delivery for these vulnerable populations. Specific issues to be addressed are Farmworkers/HIV and substance abuse and oral health needs of the migrant and farmworker population; regionally endorsed standards for family-centered care and monitoring and improving quality of managed care for Children with Special Health Care Needs.
Especially when dealing with low incidence populations, or issues that are less inclined to receive priority attention, regional collaboration offers health care professionals important support, diminishes isolation and enhances problem-solving or resource identification. Often a regional group can help a seemingly small issue get more attention, giving leverage to health departments and other public health officials to prioritize work in their own state or community.
Learning Objectives: 1. How a New England wide initiative creates awareness and improves access on critical farmworker health issues. 2. What issues currently face this vulnerable population such as HIV/substance abuse, access to dental care, and cultural and linguistic barriers
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.