The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #42836

Stacey R. Bloomer, MS, Theresa Sipe, PhD, Danielle E. Ruedt, MPH, and Syreeta Skelton, MPA, BA. College of Health and Human Sciences, Georgia State University, Office of the Dean, Atlanta, GA 30303

The overall goal of Healthy People 2010 is to increase quality and years of healthy life and to eliminate health disparities. Health disparities are particularly prominent among racial/ethnic minorities. In 2001, the Georgia Fatherhood Program (GFP) assisted 3,000 low-income noncustodial parents with employment placement and subsequent payment of child support. However, not all employment has led to jobs with health care coverage. Noncustodial parents in the Fatherhood Program are predominantly male (91%), African- American (81%), and on average 32 years old. Results of data collected during 1999-2000 indicate a significant gain in health care benefits for noncustodial parents and their children. Data collection currently in progress will reveal health care access for health prevention services and treatment of acute health problems as well as levels of health and dental insurance coverage. At the conclusion of this presentation, conference participants will be able to:

Learning Objectives:

• Describe demographic characteristics that typify noncustodial fathers who are unable to pay child support in Georgia.
• Discuss access to medical and dental care services among low-income noncustodial parents.
• Discuss rates of insurance coverage among low-income noncustodial parents
• Articulate health care insurance gains from jobs acquired through a fatherhood program.

Keywords: Access to Health Care, African American

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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