COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Community Health Center of Branch County has joined an effort to improve the health of rural Medicare patients, participating in the National Rural Accountable Care Consortium
As part of the new program, CHC will hire and train a Care Coordinator to work closely with patients – helping seniors stay healthy, get great care when needed and avoid costly and wasteful repetitive tests. CHC will also have access to information to help community physicians evaluate the services of distant specialists, hospitals and other healthcare providers to make the best recommendations for patients.
Randy DeGroot, President & CEO, states, “When our patients want support, they can come to us for advice and assistance. We will help them find the right healthcare providers, coordinate their care and help them get the best results. Our mission is to serve the community’s healthcare needs, and this program will help us do that better than ever.” Initially, CHC will introduce these new programs for Medicare patients, but hopes to expand to other types of insurance as well.
“CHC is doing its part, but the community can play an even larger role in promoting health,” Randy DeGroot added. “As a community, we need to take responsibility for our health and for each other, and encourage each other to stop smoking, eat healthful foods and get regular exercise. We need to work together for a better future for our friends and neighbors. For example, if you are a Medicare patient, we urge you to get your free Annual Wellness Visit to prevent disease and maintain your health.”
The National Rural Accountable Care Consortium includes over 250 rural community health systems in 40 states, dedicated to helping rural providers achieve the highest level of healthcare quality, efficiency and customer service.
