As patient expectations evolve and healthcare systems face mounting pressure to deliver more value-driven care, leaders across the country are rethinking how primary care is delivered. From digital tools and virtual-first platforms to the thoughtful integration of behavioral health and specialty services, forward-thinking executives are expanding access and reimagining care pathways to meet patients where they are.
Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based AdventHealth created a primary health division to deliver primary care “closer to home,” said David Banks, the health system’s president and CEO. The division has created more consumer-focused options including same-day appointments, evening hours and integrated experience between primary care, urgent care and virtual visits. The health system also created an app for patients to schedule their visits, connect with a provider or refill prescriptions.
“One of the main questions guiding our work is, ‘If this were me, or a loved one, what would make this easier?’ That keeps us focused on making the experience more personal, more connected, and something that leaves people feeling whole,” he said.
Jupiter (Fla.) Medical Center is also focused on expanding primary care locations across its catchment area. The hospital plans to break ground on the Neighborhood Hospital in Avenir and open new primary care locations with essential services.
“Our commitment to collaboration extends beyond our hospital walls as we partner with primary care providers, specialists and community organizations to enhance access to vital resources and preventative care,” said Amit Rastogi, MD, president and CEO of Jupiter Medical Center. “Through innovative programs, educational initiatives and outreach efforts, we empower individuals to take charge of their health, ensuring that high-quality care is accessible to all.”
Jupiter Medical Center isn’t the only hospital adding brick-and-mortar primary care capacity. Omaha-based CHI Health Immanuel recently doubled primary care capacity with a new 40,000 square foot, 68 exam from family health center including primary care and urgent care as well as a diabetes clinic and integrated behavioral health. The services are designed for the broader community, which includes some of the highest health disparities in the city. Moving into the new facility also opened up space for additional services in the old building.
“In the former primary and urgent care space on campus, we are investing $5.2 million to optimize that space for future specialty clinic growth,” Anthony Ashby, president of CHI Health Immanuel, told Becker’s.
Integrating primary care along with specialty, behavioral, urgent care and more is essential especially in rural areas with challenging access to care. Avera Health in Sioux Falls, S.D., has worked hard to transform primary care options for the broader community and modernize systems for better outcomes.
“At Avera, we believe access to healthcare starts with a strong primary care network,” said James Dover, president and CEO of Avera. “That’s why we’ve made primary care available across our broad, rural footprint with hundreds of locations serving our communities. We’re also expanding access through more convenient options such as acute and virtual care, as well as growing our specialty care services in key areas to ensure patients have access to quality healthcare near them.”
TMC Health in Tucson, Ariz., is expanding virtual primary care in a strategic way to grow access to care. The health system implemented DAX Copilot for 85% of its primary care physicians to create additional time in their schedules, reduce after-hours charting and improve work-life balance. The system also developed TMCOne Today, a virtual primary care program with real-time appointments for mediation refills and some non-acute care services.
“These initiatives have not only improved provider experience but also expanded capacity, without the need for additional brick and mortar locations,” said Jennifer Mendrzycki, JD, president and CEO of TMC Health. “As a result, TMCOne has built a strong reputation as an innovative primary care practice that prioritizes the well-being of its providers alongside operational successes, an invaluable asset for recruitment, retention and growth.”
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