Expand access to primary care by establishing health clinics in high-need communities

Summary

Healthcare is an essential component of creating and maintaining healthy communities, and primary care is a key part of this equation. High-quality primary care provides a “medical home” for individuals and ensures they get the right care, in the right setting, by the most appropriate practitioner, and in a manner consistent with their desires and values. A close partnership between providers and patients helps patients navigate an increasingly complex healthcare system and strive toward better health outcomes.
In New York City, there are 26 neighborhoods federally designated as primary-care shortage areas. Even this measure undercounts the real need, as neighborhoods must apply for this federal designation.
To address inequalities in access to primary care the City will help create at least 16 health clinics by the end of 2017 in neighborhoods identified by the Community Healthcare Association of New York State as being in need of additional primary- care services. Some of these clinics will be based in New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Neighborhood Health Hubs (detailed further in goal on Integrated Government & Social Services), collaborating with other local organizations to improve health in their communities.