Journal of general internal medicine
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The Providence Diabetes Collective Impact Initiative (DCII) was designed to address the clinical challenges of type 2 diabetes and the social determinants of health (SDoH) challenges that exacerbate disease impact. ⋯ DCII participation was associated with improvements in diabetes education use, SDoH screening, and some measures of care utilization.
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Integrated medical and social care via community health worker (CHW) services is a growing area of interest, particularly among health care organizations that offer care for underserved populations. Establishing Medicaid reimbursement for CHW services is only one step to improve access to CHW services. ⋯ This paper provides an overview of the barriers and strategies to operationalize Medicaid reimbursement for CHW services in the state of Minnesota, through the experience of a CHW service and technical assistance provider. Based on lessons learned in Minnesota, recommendations are made to other states, payers, and organizations as they navigate processes to operationalize Medicaid payment for CHW services.
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The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased opioid prescribing. It is not known if perceived COVID-19 related stress is associated with increased odds of long-term opioid use. ⋯ Patients who attribute worsening pain to the COVID-19 pandemic are more likely to be persistent opioid users. Further research is warranted to identify mechanisms underlying this association. Clinicians may consider discussing pain in the context of the pandemic to identify patients at high risk for persistent opioid use.