May 2021 | XinQi Dong, Ann M. Nguyen | Opinion: Local solutions
Most of us get our health care from a doctor’s office or a clinic, not a hospital. Whether it’s primary care or a specialty, such as cardiology, ophthalmology or pediatrics, these practices deliver what’s known as ambulatory care.
There are at least 6,000 ambulatory care practices in New Jersey, according to the U.S. Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services. Yet, they are underrepresented in the broader health care ecosystem. New Jersey has the second highest per capita income in the country, yet the 2020 America’s Health Rankings suggest the state ranks 41st in income inequity, 44th in access to primary care providers, 45th in flu vaccination coverage, 44th in drug-related deaths and has one of the lowest rankings for health disparities.
Physician practices here and across the country deserve to have a seat – and a voice – at the table to obtain access to the latest evidence and innovations that can allow them to operate more efficiently, evaluate and improve the quality of patient care and ultimately, the health of patients and the community in New Jersey.