AWC: Adolescent Well-Care Visits (discontinued in 2020)
Current Value
54.0%
Definition
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Notes on Methodology
- The annual reported rate captures activity during the previous calendar year.
- This is a Healthcare Effectiveness & Data Information Set (HEDIS) administrative measure.
- Based on the advice of their External Quality Review Organization (EQRO), DVHA’s rates include only Medicaid Primary beneficiaries in HEDIS administrative measures as of 2014.
- The target trend line is aligned with the All Payer Model (APM) target of the 50th percentile national benchmark for Medicaid programs.
Story Behind the Curve
This measure looks at the use of regular check-ups by adolescents. It reports the percentage of adolescents 12-21 years of age who had one or more well-care visits with a primary care provider or OB/GYN during the measurement year. Adolescents benefit from an annual preventive health care visit that addresses the physical, emotional and social aspects of their health.
Adolescence is a time of transition between childhood and adult life and is accompanied by dramatic changes. Accidents, homicide and suicide are the leading causes of adolescent deaths. Sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, pregnancy and antisocial behavior are important causes of - or result from – physical, emotional and social adolescent problems.
The American Medical Association’s (AMA) Guidelines for Adolescent Preventive Services, the federal government’s Bright Futures Program and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines recommend comprehensive annual check-ups for adolescents.
Last updated: September 2021