Require FQHCs to align with core integrated care measures
Recommendation
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) should require Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to align with core integrated care measures and ensure accountability, particularly with respect to health disparities. Dedicated funding should be provided to implement the requirement.[1]
Background/summary
FQHCs frequently serve socially and economically marginalized communities. FQHCs must report on quality measures associated with mental health and substance use disorders (MH/SUDs), including depression screenings, brief alcohol interventions, and depression remissions.[1][2] However, they are not required to use the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) core quality measures for publicly funded health plans.[3][4] Clinical experts have raised concerns about the efficacy of existing FQHC reporting requirements, particularly in addressing disparate health outcomes in marginalized communities.[1] HHS should mandate that FQHCs align with CMS’ core measures to address health disparities. Implementation of these reporting requirements should be appropriately funded. [1]
citations
1. Bipartisan Policy Center. Tackling America’s Mental Health and Addiction Crisis Through Primary Care Integration (Task Force Recommendations). Last Updated March 2021.
2. Mary M. Ford, Angela Allard, Jordan Goldberg, Cynthia Summers. “Federally Qualified Health Center Penetration Associated With Reduced Community COVID-19 Mortality in Four United States Cities.” J. Prim Care Community Health. Last Updated November 30, 2022.
3. Federal Register. Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Programs; Medicaid Managed Care, CHIP Delivered in Managed Care, and Revisions Related to Third Party Liability. Last Updated May 6, 2016.
4. Federal Register. Medicaid Program; Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Managed Care. Last Updated November 13, 2020.