The medical home model holds promise as a way to improve health care in America by transforming how primary care is organized and delivered. Building on the work of a large and growing community, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) defines a medical home not simply as a place but as a model of the organization of primary care that delivers the core functions of primary health care.

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Patient-Centered Medical Home

What is a Patient-Centered Medical Home?A patient-centered medical home (PCMH) is a more effective and efficient model of health care delivery. This new model produces better care and helps to lower healthcare costs. North Carolina is helping to lead the nation in the number of physicians and practices recognized that support patient-centered care.

Based on the 2007 Joint Principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home as agreed to by the AAFP, AAP, ACOP, and the AOA, a patient-centered medical home features:

• Patients have a relationship with a personal physician.
• The physician-led care team is responsible for the patient’s comprehensive care.
• Patients can expect care that is coordinated across care settings and disciplines.
• Quality is measured and improved as part of daily work flow.
• Patients experience enhanced access and communication.
• Medical homes use EHRs, registries, and other clinical support systems.

Websites

Key Transformation Resources & Sites –AAFP’s PCMH Resource Page
 
AOA Patient Centered Medical Home Resources

The Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative

Agency for Healthcare Quality & Research PCMH Site

CCNC’s PCMH Recognition Guide

PCPCC’s Practical Guide to Transformation

Reports, Articles & Presentations on PCMH –Building Medical Homes: Lessons From Eight States with Emerging Programs

AHRQ’s PCMH Articles Listing (w/citations)

BCBSNC’s Move Towards the Patient-Centered Medical Home is Helping My Small Family Practice

Downloadable Resources

Why the Patient Centered Medical Home Works Handout
 
Patient Handout by PCPCC

NCAFP Handout: Value of PCMH

NCAFP Handout: What a Medical Home Means to You