PCOs Across U.S. Harness Data to Boost Healthcare Accessibility
Primary Care Offices (PCOs) across the U.S. are actively gathering and utilising data to improve healthcare accessibility and effectiveness. New Hampshire's PCO, for instance, surveys providers during license renewals, while Iowa's purchases phone survey data from the University of Iowa. These offices, present in every state, play a crucial role in monitoring local health systems.
PCOs collect a wide range of information, including provider locations, services offered, hours worked, and community needs. This data helps assess healthcare accessibility and identify areas with shortages. For example, New Hampshire's PCO is authorised by law to collect, analyse, and report on health care workforce supply and capacity through surveys.
To support Medicaid agencies, PCOs must justify their data needs and develop collaborative relationships. Iowa's PCO, for instance, has a long-standing partnership with the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Over 85% of PCOs have formal data-sharing arrangements, with Medicaid agencies and licensing boards being common sources. At least 16 PCOs receive provider data from their state Medicaid agency.
Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), PCOs also identify communities with health professional shortages and may administer workforce programs. Colorado's PCO, for instance, collects and integrates data from 16 different sources, requiring varied procurement strategies and additional funding.
PCOs, funded by HRSA and present in every state, are vital for understanding and improving healthcare accessibility. By collecting and analysing data, they can identify shortages, assess needs, and support Medicaid agencies. Collaboration with other organisations, such as AHIMA, and data-sharing with Medicaid agencies are common strategies employed by PCOs to achieve these goals.
