The Greater Augusta Healthcare Network (GAHN): An Impact Evaluation
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Authors
Gray, Kimberly F.
Issue Date
2013-02-04
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Public Administration , United States -- Georgia -- Augusta , Healthcare , Public Health , Clinics , Health Insurance , Uninsured , Emergency Room
Alternative Title
Abstract
This study estimates the impact that the Greater Augusta Healthcare Network (GAHN) has had on inappropriate emergency department visits by uninsured patients. The research question considered whether or not the community health clinics decrease inappropriate emergency department visits by uninsured patients. The study compared the total number of uninsured, inappropriate emergency department visits to the total number of community health clinic (CHC) visits that could occur if visits at the CHCs met capacity to determine financial impact. Analysis of four years of data of uninsured patient visits to three hospital emergency departments and to five area CHCs showed that area clinics do not decrease inappropriate emergency department visits by uninsured patients, but that the clinics do provide an important healthcare home for uninsured patients. GAHN could have a greater impact on the community by using case management, by implementing a physician registry, and by using a geographic information system (GIS) to improve their service delivery.
Description
2012 Doctor of Public Administration Dissertation by Kimberly F. Gray at Valdosta State University Graduate School.