Off to the Right Start: Well-Child Visit Attendance Among Health Center Users

Introduction: This study examines correlates of past-year well-child visit attendance, reasons for choosing to receive care at a health center, and patient experience among pediatric federally qualified health center users. Method: This observational study used cross-sectional 2009 Health Center Patient Survey data. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable models were utilized. Results: This study found that 83.0% of children who visited a health center in the past year had a well-child visit in the past year and 88.5% had a usual source of care, with no disparities based on race/ethnicity or insurance status. A usual source of care, especially a health center, enhanced well- child visit attendance. The top reasons for seeking care at a health center include convenience (31.6%), quality (24.5%), accessibility (17.7%), and co-located nonmedical services (11.5%). Discussion: Well- child visit attendance is high but there is room for improvement, particularly among patients who lack a usual source of care.