Influences of Telehealth Services on Appointment Attendance in Underserved Populations
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Author
Allen, Allison
Harris, Lisa
White, Tamara
Publisher
Washburn University
Sponsor
School of Nursing
Issue Date
Rights
Alternative Title
Abstract
Background/Problem: Accessibility barriers related to social determinants of health impact
appointment attendance rates in underserved, medically complex populations. Underserved
populations influenced by such barriers are at higher risk of poor health outcomes due to
inadequate chronic disease management. Complications of chronic disease can lead to negative
repercussions including higher rates of emergency room visits and hospitalizations.
Purpose: The purpose of this pilot project was to evaluate if the presence of on-site telehealth
services impact healthcare appointment attendance rates in an underserved, medically and
socially complex population, residing in public housing in Topeka, Kansas.
Methods: A telehealth access point was implemented within a public housing residence where
the project team conducted scheduled primary care visits at monthly intervals. Inclusion criteria
required residency within the public housing complex, 18 years of age or older, and an absence
of an established primary care provider or the desire to change providers. Interventions were
implemented in collaboration with the Topeka Housing Authority (THA), Pine Ridge Family
Health Center and concurrent pilot study by the Behavioral health Workforce Education for
Longitudinal Learning (BWELL). Simple descriptive statistics and qualitative data were utilized
to evaluate improvement in appointment attendance rates.
Conclusion: 71% of participants attended all recommended appointments offered by the project
team, indicating on-site telehealth services as a viable solution for healthcare access. Participants
reported the need for additional, ancillary services such as social work, mental health, and dental
services that provide further benefit to meet the population’s health needs and sustainability.