Implementing teams in a patient-centered medical home residency practice

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22403204

J Am Board Fam Med. 2012 Mar;25(2):224-31.

Implementing teams in a patient-centered medical home residency practice: lessons learned.

Markova T, Mateo M, Roth LM.

Source

the Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Rochester Hills, MI.

Abstract

Introduction: The "new model of care" calls for a new approach for primary care delivery that focuses on patient centeredness, quality, safety, effective and efficient care, and interdisciplinary teamwork. Medical education needs to parallel this health care reorganization. Implementing a team approach in a residency practice, especially in ambulatory settings, poses unique challenges.

METHODS:

We introduced interdisciplinary teams in a family medicine residency site, integrating clinical and educational objectives.

RESULTS:

We report our challenges and successes in the transformational journey to a patient-centered medical home, for which a team approach is critical to achieving high quality care.

CONCLUSION:

Establishing high-functioning interdisciplinary teams takes leadership commitment; the engagement of everyone in the practice; investment in staff, resident, and faculty development; and clear communication of vision and goals. Integration of clinical and educational objectives can be powerfully synergistic. Clinical, organizational, and educational outcomes are needed to evaluate impact.