Dataset from COVID-19 Testing in Underserved and Vulnerable Populations Receiving Care in San Diego Community Health Centers

Background: The goal of this community-engaged work was to develop, test, and evaluate a rapid, scalable capacity building study to enhance COVID-19 testing among underserved and vulnerable individuals in regional community health centers (CHCs) in San Diego County. This study included underserved (socioeconomically disadvantaged and large proportion of Hispanic/Latinos) as well as COVID-19 vulnerable individuals (patients with medical comorbidities and 65 years of age and older).

Materials/Methods: The study compared the effectiveness of automated calls and text messaging for uptake of COVID-19 testing among asymptomatic adult patients with select medical conditions and those 65 years of age and older receiving care at participating CHCs. In addition, the study gathered patient, provider, CHC leadership, and community stakeholder insights to establish best practices for future scale-up of COVID-19 testing sustainability and vaccination.

Outcome/Impact: The study found that equitable vaccine access and delivery is possible and identified strategies to address disproportionate infection rates and follow-up. By working in partnership with health care providers, health care system leaders, and community stakeholders, this study built evidence-based approaches and identified sustainable solutions to understand and address future pandemics in underserved and vulnerable populations.