The rest of the access-to-care puzzle. Addressing structural and personal barriers to health care for socially disadvantaged children.

ABSTRACT

A mother brings her 2-year-old child to the office at 430 Friday afternoon. The child has been seen only once in the practice for an episode of otitis media. The child missed her follow-up appointment. When the receptionist asks why the child is here, the mother responds that she was able to get a ride today with a neighbor who has an appointment with another physician in the practice. The child is not covered by health insurance. The mother did not bring her immunization record and is not certain what preventive care the child has received in the past.