Setting Up a Medical Home for Chinese Immigrant Families with Children with Special Health Care Needs: A Step-Wise Approach

Abstract

Children with special health care needs (CSHCN) require health services beyond what generally is required. CSHCN from immigrant families face additional challenges, including cultural, language, racial, and socioeconomic barriers. Federally qualified health centers provide an ideal setting to treat these children, providing comprehensive, family-centered care that fits their linguistic and cultural needs. This article describes the development of a National Committee for Quality Assurance level 3 medical home, addressing cultural perspectives and barriers to quality care for the Chinese immigrant community by highlighting Edward Wagner's Chronic Care Model, medical home criteria, electronic health records, parent engagement, staff development, and community collaboration.