Since 1967, the federal government has had an entitlement program (known as EPSDT) under which Medical Assistance-eligible children and youth under the age of 21 can receive free, periodic and comprehensive medical exams. For two decades, Automated Health Systems (AHS) has been encouraging parents to participate in EPSDT which is voluntary in Pennsylvania (that is, when families apply for Medical Assistance, they can choose whether or not to partake in EPSDT). As part of our outreach to families to increase the utilization of and benefits from preventive health initiatives, AHS outreached families in a variety of ways (face to face, over the phone and through the mail). In addressing barriers to program participation, we have grappled with the question: "Why do some families choose not to participate in this free service?" During the first half of 2001, AHS conducted a brief phone survey to families who had declined EPSDT. Results from this survey will be analyzed and presented, along with ramifications of the findings in re-educating all eligible consumers.
Learning Objectives: 1) At the end of this session, participants will be able to assess and discuss the reasons why families do not participate in free health services. 2) At the end of this session, participants will be able to develop appropriate questions/survey in dealing with consumers regarding medical services not currently utilized. 3) At the end of this session, participants will knwo what steps to consider in re-education eligible consumers.
Keywords: Access to Health Care, Medicare/Medicaid
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Automated Health Systems, Inc.
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment