SDSU Imperial Valley students create health care database to expand medical support
The group of math undergraduate students presented at the annual Student Symposium in February.
SDSU Imperial Valley undergraduate mathematics students worked to improve access to specialized health care services in Imperial Valley through an innovative website. Their research project, “Enhancing Access to Medical Care in the Imperial Valley,” was showcased at the annual SDSU Student Symposium (S3) in February.
Imperial Valley faces significant challenges in health care, such as high rates of diabetes and asthma. As the four students are Imperial Valley natives, their own experiences with the health care system pushed them to look into the resources and support available in the region.
The team began analyzing a California Department of Health Care Services dataset, which contains provider information for Medi-Cal Managed Care Plans (MCPs). This dataset includes details such as provider names, specialties and addresses, allowing them to see the distribution of health care specialists in Imperial County.
“This project was part of our work for SDSU’s fifth Big Data Hackathon, where we only had a week to put the project together,” said team member Xitlali Ortega. “When we tried looking for datasets, we found out we couldn’t use the majority of the data available. It was as if resources were often missing. It was a really eye-opening experience.”
After conducting intensive research, the students created maps to identify the locations of specific specialists throughout the valley. Maps were created for San Diego County as well. The maps also show specialists not available in the Imperial Valley, and if the specialist offers telehealth services.
“Even if we look at resources available for people who have Medicare or Medi-Cal, we realized there still aren't enough resources nearby,” said Daniel Lara. “Our main goal is to have necessary outlets so that people get the support they need, and hopefully find a long-term solution.”
After developing the maps,the team launched its Desert Python Developers website, where community members can look for specialized services specific to a certain area and health care plan.
“We mapped out the providers and identified where there is a shortage of specialists, so that we can inform local officials and health care providers that there is still yet to offer, either virtually or in person,” said David Aguilar.
During their S3 presentation, the team also shared how real-time appointment availability through a virtual platform or extending mobile clinics can be key for people who need more timely medical attention.
“It was great to see how we can try to bring a more feasible solution to an issue that affects so many people in Imperial Valley,” said Caleb Molina. “It really showed us how we can use our skills to help our communities and see what is really happening in the region.”
The students were mentored by Tingting Tang, SDSU Imperial Valley assistant professor of mathematics, who guided the students during the hackathon and S3.
“It was very rewarding to see them lead this project and see how they are the ones putting the answer into the question,” said Tang. “They grew and learned so much by using core practices into practice as researchers.”
