1. Fiscal Burdens and Resource Gaps of Children with Chronic Pulmonary Conditions Living in a Rural State PI: Marie L. Lobo, PhD, RN, FAAN Professor, College of Nursing CoPI: Patricia L. Marshik, Pharm D. Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy Research Assistant: Susie Kinyanjui Masters in Public Health Candidate Funded by: Robert Wood Johnson Center for Health Policy at The University of New Mexico

2. Background The fiscal costs to the family of a child with a chronic pulmonary condition are not well documented Gaps in services in rural communities are not understood New Mexico provides unique challenges to families –Distance to care –Number of providers available

3. Purpose Primary purpose –describe the fiscal burden for families caring for a child with a chronic pulmonary illness when the family lives in a rural state Secondary purpose –understand the gaps in services for children with chronic pulmonary conditions living in rural communities

4. Methods and Procedures Data collection from 150 families from rural and urban areas in New Mexico Families recruited from the Pediatric Pulmonary Clinic at the UNM Hospital Descriptive data –Demographic information –Assessment of out-of-pocket expenses –Gaps in services assessment

5. Data Barriers to access –Availability of providers –Distance to clinic Financial burden –Transportation costs to clinic –House modifications –Medication –Medical equipment and supplies –Special clothing

6. Health Policy Recommendations Financial support for families who travel long distances Develop programs to inform families and providers about available support