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Dr. Leddy studies the healthcare experiences of preschool children who are part of Medicaid programs. His research often investigates how well these children are screened for health conditions like lead poisoning and tuberculosis, as well as how often they visit the emergency department. He also looks at vaccination rates and how different healthcare settings affect these important health measures. By understanding these dynamics, Dr. Leddy aims to improve healthcare strategies for low-income children, ensuring they receive the necessary preventive care and interventions.
Key findings
In Dr. Leddy's study on lead screening, 80% of preschool children were screened, with 29% of those screening positive for elevated lead levels, indicating a significant health concern.
His research on immunization rates found that the overall rate was 75%, with health maintenance organization patients having the highest rate of 85%, compared to just 72% for those receiving care in office-based settings.
The pediatric emergency department utilization study revealed that 68 out of every 100 children visited the ED in a year, with 31% of these visits occurring due to injuries or poisonings.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Leddy study tuberculosis testing?
Yes, he has researched tuberculosis testing among preschool children enrolled in Medicaid, finding that only 36.8% of those tested had documented results.
What treatments has Dr. Leddy researched?
While he does not specifically focus on treatments, his studies examine preventive care measures such as lead screening and immunization, which are vital for child health.
Is Dr. Leddy's work relevant to low-income families?
Absolutely, his research targets health outcomes for preschool children in Medicaid, making it highly relevant for low-income families seeking better healthcare access and quality.
What impact does Dr. Leddy's research have on healthcare policy?
His findings can influence policy changes aimed at improving healthcare access and quality for children in Medicaid, informing strategies that can be adopted by healthcare providers and policymakers.
Publications in plain English
A statewide assessment of tuberculin skin testing of preschool children enrolled in medicaid managed care.
2006
Maternal and child health journal
Vivier PM, O'haire C, Alario AJ, Simon P, Leddy T +1 more
Plain English This study looked at tuberculosis (TB) testing in preschool children in Rhode Island who are enrolled in Medicaid. Of nearly 2,000 children, 61% received a TB test, but only 736 had their test results recorded, and just one child tested positive for TB. These findings show that while many children were tested, a significant number did not have their results documented, which is important for ensuring proper health care.
Who this helps: This helps children in Medicaid and their healthcare providers.
Plain English This study looked at how often young children in a Rhode Island Medicaid program went to the emergency department (ED) and how their type of medical home affected those visits. Out of nearly 2,000 children, 791 went to the ED, which works out to about 68 visits for every 100 children in a year, with 31% of those visits due to injuries or poisonings. The findings showed that kids with certain types of medical homes, like health maintenance organizations (HMOs), visited the ED less often compared to those with hospital-based clinics, highlighting the importance of having a good medical home for reducing emergency visits.
Who this helps: This information is beneficial for parents and healthcare providers working with young children on Medicaid.
A statewide assessment of lead screening histories of preschool children enrolled in a Medicaid managed care program.
2001
Pediatrics
Vivier PM, Hogan JW, Simon P, Leddy T, Dansereau LM +1 more
Plain English This study looked at the lead screening rates of preschool children enrolled in Medicaid in Rhode Island. It found that while 80% of the children had been screened for lead poisoning, nearly 29% of those screened had elevated lead levels, indicating potential health risks. The findings show that certain healthcare settings, like health centers, are more effective in screening children than regular doctors' offices, highlighting the need for better strategies to ensure all children are screened.
Who this helps: This helps patients and their families, particularly those enrolled in Medicaid.
An analysis of the immunization status of preschool children enrolled in a statewide Medicaid managed care program.
2001
The Journal of pediatrics
Vivier PM, Alario AJ, Peter G, Leddy T, Simon P +1 more
Plain English This study looked at the immunization rates of preschool children enrolled in a Medicaid program in a specific state. Researchers found that while the overall immunization rate was 75%, specific vaccines were covered between 87% and 94%. The type of primary care provider made a difference: kids seen at staff model health maintenance organizations had the highest immunization rates at 85%, while those at office-based settings had the lowest at 72%.
Who this helps: This information helps pediatricians and public health officials improve vaccination strategies for low-income children.
State perspectives on health care reform: Oregon, Hawaii, Tennessee, and Rhode Island.
1995
Health care financing review
Thorne JI, Bianchi B, Bonnyman G, Greene C, Leddy T
Plain English This paper looks at how four states—Oregon, Hawaii, Tennessee, and Rhode Island—are trying to change and improve their health care systems using special government programs. Each state has its own approach and challenges, showing that there isn't a single best method for health care reform. Understanding these different experiences is important because it can help other states learn from their successes and challenges.
Who this helps: This helps policymakers and health care leaders working on reform initiatives in other states.