The Primary Source, Dec. 2010: Progress Through Partnerships
Newsletters, December 1, 2010In This Issue:
Dear Friends,
What a year! We achieved national healthcare reform, and a recognition that primary care is
at the heart of a more efficient and effective health system. Expansion
of innovative care models, community health centers, and primary care
workforce, as well as elimination of co-pays for preventive care, will help
revolutionize healthcare delivery in the United States.
Just a couple of weeks ago, CMS announced the exciting launch of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation to test new
models of care that focus on improving quality of care and lowering costs. The
first initiatives were aimed at strengthening primary care and improving care
coordination for patients. We're delighted that CMS has
chosen New York's Adirondack Medical Home Pilot for its national demonstration;
the project is led by John Rugge, MD, President & CEO of the Hudson
Headwaters Health Network (and PCDC Board member).
Now, it is time to focus on leveraging these opportunities and ensuring that
they remain strong and funded in an increasingly uncertain political
environment. PCDC will work with its partners to ensure sufficient
low-cost capital to build our primary care infrastructure; help providers
become Patient-Centered Medical Homes and fully utilize electronic health
records; and ensure that primary care providers are at the heart of Accountable
Care Organizations and other new models of care.
We are proud to be working with so many creative partners who share the mission
of bringing excellent healthcare to every neighborhood. Together, we
have taken the first steps toward a more affordable, effective healthcare
system. We can do this!
Happy Holidays,
Ronda Kotelchuck
Executive Director
