Access to physical and mental healthcare services
This solution addresses gaps in healthcare in New York City, USA for local communities
Problem Description
In 2013, nearly one million New York City residents felt they did not receive the medical care they needed in the past year, with residents of the poorest neighborhoods reporting they were receiving the least care. Residents of these low-income neighborhoods also bear a greater burden of specific diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and infant deaths, when compared to other neighborhoods. For example, more than a third of residents of very high-poverty neighborhoods have been diagnosed with high blood pressure; by contrast, less than a quarter of residents of low-poverty neighborhoods were diagnosed with high blood pressure.Building Blocks
- Neighborhoods with access to high-quality essential healthcare services
- Transform NYC Health and Hospitals Corporation to be anchored by community-based preventive care
- Expand access to primary care by establishing health clinics in high-need communities
- Expand access points for mental health and substance abuse care
- Work with New York State on transformation of the healthcare delivery system
Story
Mental health and substance abuse issues affect many New Yorkers. Fifteen percent of all New Yorkers report having been diagnosed with depression. However, the highest prevalence is in high-poverty neighborhoods. In the poorest New York City neighborhoods, seven percent of residents experience serious psychological distress (SPD), compared to three percent in the wealthiest neighborhoods.
To reduce disparities in health outcomes, the City will work to develop a healthcare delivery system that emphasizes an integrated and patient-centered approach to care that is delivered in convenient and accessible locations.
Resources
Organisations Involved
Solution Stage
One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more
| STAGE | SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED | EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES | RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING | FINANCE REQUIRED | KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED | GOAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Developing and testing3 | Mix of design and implementation skills |
|
HIGH |
MEDIUM | A stronger case with cost and benefit projections developed through practical trials and experiments, involving potential users | Demonstration that the idea works, or evidence to support a reworking of the idea |