Emergency department pilot program serves rural families

(Press-News.org) Emergency departments (EDs) hold a unique position for treating people from rural areas, as many patients from these regions have limited access to primary care services. According to a new study from the University of Missouri School of Medicine, a pilot program involving ED staff could help fulfill the unmet needs of pediatric patients and their families.

The Mizzou study evaluated a pilot program called Tigers ConnectED, which was designed to identify and assist families visiting the pediatric emergency department who might be facing challenges outside of traditional medical care.

Over an eight-week period, researchers surveyed 95 families. Nearly half reported at least one unmet essential need, with food insecurity being the most common. Families were contacted after their emergency visit and offered information about available community resources. Of those who requested help, three out of four were successfully reached and connected to services remotely — primarily through text messages.

“Because health care is far away for these patients, it can be hard for parents to arrange transportation or find time off work to drive to primary care or specialty appointments,” said study author Dr. Mary Beth Bernardin. “To help these families, we have to meet them where they are, and previous research has shown the ED is where that connection most frequently happens.”

About 40% of participating families were from surrounding rural counties. The research found that while these families were less likely to request assistance, many faced similar challenges to those living in urban areas.

“We have an opportunity to improve the lives of families and children who live in rural areas and don’t have their needs met,” Bernardin said. “By reaching out beyond the exam room, we can make a real difference in the health and stability of children and their communities.”

The Tigers ConnectED project builds on MU Health Care’s existing Tigers Connect program, which began in pediatric clinics in 2021. Both initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to understanding the factors that influence a family’s overall well-being and improving access to care across Missouri. 

Mary Beth Bernardin, MD is a pediatric emergency medicine doctor at MU Health Care and associate professor of emergency medicine and pediatrics at the Mizzou School of Medicine. She is also the Medical Director of Emergency Medical Services for Children, the Assistant Medical Director of the Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, and the Director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Education. 

“Social Determinants of Health Screening and Remote Intervention for a Pediatric Emergency Department” was recently published in Family and Community Health. In addition to Bernardin, Mizzou study authors include medical student Destri Eichman; statistician Bin Ge, MD; Elizabeth Kendrick, director of research activities; Janisha Eubanks, project support coordinator; physician assistant Megan EuDaly; Julie Stilley, PhD, research director of emergency medicine; and Alexandra James, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics. Danielle Zoellner, Dr. Jennae Raken and alumnae Isabella McCartney and Mariana Mendoza Castro contributed. 

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