EAHCN: Exemplary Patient-Centered Health Care
http://www.plattsburgh.edu/offices/centers/cisp/eahcn/index.php
I found an organization called the Eastern Adirondack Health Care Network that focuses on patient-centered initiatives. EAHCN is a coalition of health care providers that span Essex, Franklin and Clinton Counties. This network strives to achieve many unique goals that include improving the financial viability of rural health care providers and enhancing partnerships with neighboring communities to share services in rural areas. One of the projects undertaken by this network includes a healthy youth development program that works within local communities to prevent substance abuse, teen pregnancy, delinquency, violence and school dropouts. Other projects include geriatric mental health and arthritis management.
The EAHCN exemplifies many aspects of the patient-centered medical home initiative. It focuses on better communication between the patient population and health-care providers. It revolves around getting patients more involved in the healthcare process. I would love to be a part of this network as a rural healthcare practitioner. I think it is important to reach out to the community and increase patient involvement. I could see myself getting involved in some sort of health living initiative that would include outreach programs that that teach nutrition, fitness, mental wellness and other healthy lifestyle behaviors. This is my personal passion and I would love to launch an initiative in the local community that I live and work in.
I love the idea of communities coming together to share resources! It is such a great solution for some of the problems faced by practices isolated in rural locations that maybe cannot afford all the latest and greatest technology. More practices should use this strategy!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I really like the sounds of their community outreach program. So many health problems can be prevented through proper education and I think rural communities sometimes lack in this area, at least in my own experience. The teenage years are a perfect time to step in and provide positive education and support. These young adults are often trying to find their own path in the world and are often eager for positive guidance, even if they won't always admit it. I think this is a wonderful passion of yours because you will be able to make a difference in so many lives in your community!
I admire your passion for healthy living initiatives, and think it is a great idea to launch one in the community that you practice in. One of the local doctors in my home community has done that, and it has made the community healthier and more aware as a whole.
ReplyDeleteI also love to see rural communities working together because it is imperative for communities rely on one another in so many areas. Why not see that in healthcare too? I hope that EACHN can continue their patient initiatives as they sound truly rewarding for the community.