"In the Clinic They Know Us": Preferences for Clinic-Based Financial and Employment Services in Urban Pediatric Primary Care
Quinn, C.; Johnson, K.; Raney, C.; Baker, J.; Topel, K.; Tschudy, M.M.; Jaganath, D.; Solomon, B.S.
Academic Pediatrics 18(8): 912-919
2018
ISSN/ISBN: 1876-2859 PMID: 29959085 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2018.06.008Document Number: 271445
To understand views of adolescent and adult caregivers on integrating employment and financial services into a pediatric primary care clinic serving low-income families. Eighteen in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted among caregivers of pediatric patients. Participants were recruited from those who completed a survey assessing financial and employment needs. Audio-recorded transcripts were analyzed using line-by-line coding of emerging themes. Adolescent and adult caregivers expressed difficulty managing financial stress. They cited having a criminal history, limited financial literacy, and lack of available quality jobs as barriers to achieving financial stability. A clinic-based employment and financial program was highly acceptable among potential users for the convenience it offers and the established trust and understanding between patients and clinical providers. Participants preferred one-on-one counseling for sensitive employment and financial issues, although they did believe that some topics, such as building a resume, could be accomplished in group workshops. Caregivers attending a pediatric clinic expressed interest in and anticipated value from clinic-based employment and financial services if implemented services are relevant, accessible, and provide options for group and individualized approaches.