Mapping Tools for Monitoring the Safety Net Andrew W. Bazemore, MD Institute for Health Policy and Health Services Research University of Cincinnati

2 What is a Geographic Information System (GIS)? Software capable of linking geographically-referenced data together with graphic map features Software capable of linking geographically-referenced data together with graphic map features –Eases comprehension of complex data –Allows multiple data layers to be viewed simultaneously, or dynamically –Permits map production, analysis, and modeling

3 Analytic Mapping and CHCs: Possibilities Define CHC Health Service Areas Define CHC Health Service Areas Examine CHC “market” penetration rates Examine CHC “market” penetration rates Find underserved areas within MUA service areas Find underserved areas within MUA service areas Determine areas of inequitable access to subgroup populations in need of services Determine areas of inequitable access to subgroup populations in need of services Improve capacity for COPC by each network Improve capacity for COPC by each network Create Web-based Interactive mapping at clinic level Create Web-based Interactive mapping at clinic level

4 GIS & CHC’s:Utilization & Access

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6 MUA Census Tracts for a Baltimore CHC

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8 Obstacles Definition of ‘Ideal Service Area’ Definition of ‘Ideal Service Area’ Urban setting = Multiple Providers Urban setting = Multiple Providers Technology-driven: Expense/Training Technology-driven: Expense/Training

9 CHC Response to Mapping Focus Groups/Key Informant Interviews Focus Groups/Key Informant Interviews Responses and Suggestions Responses and Suggestions –Uniformly positive responses –Great tool for strategic planning/resource allocation –Maps easily comprehended by clinic leaders –Correlation w/knowledge of community needed –Dynamic maps superior to static maps Many future mapping projects proposed Many future mapping projects proposed

10 Conclusions GIS: a flexible and powerful tool to: assess patterns of CHC service assess patterns of CHC service engage CHC leaders and communities engage CHC leaders and communities aid in strategic planning and resource allocation aid in strategic planning and resource allocation