February 24, 2021

A National Study of Community Health Centers’ Readiness to Address COVID-19

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Public Health Policy and Practice

Keywords (Tags): public health

COVID-19 exacerbated existing capacity issues at different community health centers (CHCs) in the US, according to results from a cross-sectional survey and focus groups with healthcare personnel. Survey respondents (n=234; 19% response rate) indicated that the top resource and educational needs were related to COVID-19 infection prevention and control (76%), safety precautions (72%), and screening, diagnostic testing, and management of patients (66%). Focus group results (n=39) showed that needs included unity among leadership, more resources (including PPE and testing supplies), as well as increased workforce capacity, clearer communications, and formal policies and procedures, particularly related to triage. 

Damian et al. (Feb 23, 2021). A National Study of Community Health Centers’ Readiness to Address COVID-19. The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine. https://doi.org/10.3122/jabfm.2021.S1.200167