Medicaid Managed Care Services

Health disparities are differences in the incidence, prevalence, mortality, and burden of disease and other health conditions that exist when specific population subgroups are compared. (National Institutes of Health)

Arkansas is a rural state with most of its counties medically underserved. Economics and oppression shape community environments, which in turn influence health. Improving the environments in which people live, work, learn and play is a critical step toward reducing disparities.

Numerous factors can contribute to health disparities, and many are preventable or can be overcome. In Arkansas, populations that are likely affected include those who: 

• live in conditions of poverty
• are non-English speaking
• are considered minority populations with regard to race or ethnicity
• have low literacy or low educational levels
• have poor access to health care
• are uninsured or underinsured

As the quality improvement organization for the state, we are dedicated to the clinical evaluation and improvement of health care in Arkansas. This responsibility includes helping to reduce health disparities by addressing those factors that are preventable.

One of the most promising strategies to emerge for reducing disparities in health and health care is the application of a quality improvement framework to promote measurable improvement. AFMC has established a solid foundation using proven evidence-based models for improving specific aspects of patient care. We are dedicated to helping physicians understand, confront and improve accessibility, utilization and the quality of health care for all Arkansans.