In recent years, there has been a growing focus on holistic care coordination (HCC) as a patient-centered approach to healthcare. This approach takes into account the physical, emotional, and social aspects of a patient and their family when developing a healthcare plan. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Program collaborated with the Kansas Health Institute in 2023 to investigate how the HCC model could be expanded in primary care and maternal and child health programs in Kansas.
This report delves into the current HCC services available for pregnant and postpartum Kansas residents, as well as children, particularly those between the ages of 0-8. The goal is to guide future enhancements to HCC policy and practice in Kansas.
The HCC model recognizes that a patient’s health is not solely determined by their medical condition, but also by their environment, lifestyle, and social support system. By taking a more holistic approach to healthcare, HCC can help patients achieve better health outcomes and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations.
The KDHE Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Program has been working to expand HCC services in primary care settings by providing training for healthcare providers on how to integrate this approach into their practice. They have also collaborated with community organizations to provide additional support for families in need of holistic care.
In addition to these efforts, this report also explores the challenges facing HCC programs in Kansas, such as funding constraints and lack of awareness among providers about its benefits. The authors recommend several strategies for addressing these challenges, including increased funding for HCC programs, improved education for providers about its benefits, and greater collaboration between different healthcare stakeholders involved in delivering holistic care.
