Funded Projects   Access to Health Care   Physical Health   Social, Emotional and   Behavioral Health

Community Liaison Project From: Department of Pediatrics, UNC School of Medicine Contact: William Hubbard, MD, Professor of Pediatrics Purpose: Improve and assure access to community services for patients at the UNC Pediatric Continuity Clinic with special needs; and educate pediatric residents how to advocate for and secure available community services for patients from health departments, schools, CDSA (Children's Developmental Services Agencies and DSS (Department of Social Services). How: Use a Community Liaison (CL) position to link services in their local community as identified in the Continuity Clinic. Accept and follow-up on referrals from clinic residents. Meet with families to assist with connections to community services. Train residents on strategies to help families access services and to find other ways to provide family support. Outcome: Track number of Continuity Clinic patients requiring CL services. Identify referral agencies in local counties that best meet patient and family needs. Track categories of patient and family need. Survey patient families about access to information, programs and services. Survey resident and faculty physicians regarding contribution of CL to resident training and impact on quality of care. Cost/Term: $60,00 over two years. July 2005-December 2008