Medicaid Programs Can Use Community Health Workers to Close Pediatric Care Gaps

Community health workers can help Medicaid programs address missed well-child visits, immunization delays, and undiagnosed chronic conditions in children. CHWs connect families to clinical care and social services, addressing barriers like transportation, language, and health literacy. States can reimburse CHW services through state plan amendments or managed care contracts. The approach is particularly relevant for MCOs managing pediatric populations where preventive care gaps drive long-term costs and poor health outcomes.

Managed Care · Maternal · CHIP