Certified Internist’s Knowledge of the Care for Underserved Patients

• In Event: Measurement Issues in Medical Licensure and Certification

Abstract

Although U.S. healthcare quality is improving, disparities are not. We analyzed properties of the Care for the Underserved module which assesses practitioners’ knowledge-base related to care of the underserved. 1,219 physicians completed the module plus two surveys. Analyses included descriptive statistics, factor analysis, and a multiple linear regression. Performance was good (mean of 73%) but left room for improvement. Factor analysis provided evidence of validity and reliability was respectable (0.67). Certain physicians had a better knowledge-base (e.g., U.S./Canadian born and trained, in group practice, fewer privately insured patients). Physicians found the process valuable but requested guidance for improvement. Our research recognizes the importance of a sound knowledge-base in order to close the gap in the disparities of care.

Authors

• Rebecca S. Lipner, American Board of Internal Medicine

• Rebecca A. Baranowski, American Board of Internal Medicine

• Michelle Johnston-Fleece, American Board of Internal Medicine