Recruitment and Retention of Community Health Center Primary Care Physicians post MA Health Care Reform: 2008 vs. 2013 Physician Surveys

Abstract

Outcomes illustrate opportunities to prepare medical students and residents for CHC careers and recruit and retain this vital workforce. Retention efforts must include teaching, administration, research, and professional development opportunities.

Factors Associated With Accuracy of Self-Assessment Compared With Tested Non–English Language Proficiency Among Primary Care Providers

“…One study found that 73% of physicians serving at community health centers that serve a large immigrant and refugee population, reported to speak at least one non-English language at a self-assessed level sufficient to conduct a patient history and physical exam. Of these physicians, 82% rated their skills to talk clearly and accurately to LEP patients as 'good' to 'excellent' and 68% reported that they use an interpreter in less than 25% of patient encounters (33). Health care centers such as the ones described above, with high levels LEP patients and with a high number of primary care providers (PCPs) reporting to speak and treat their patients in another language other than English, may be particularly interested in implementing ways to accurately assess non-English language proficiency to assure the best quality of care given to LEP patients.…”