LCHC Earns National Recognition for Patient Care

The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) today announced that Lynn Community Health Center has received recognition from the Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 Program for using evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long term participative relationships.

The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) is a model of care emphasizing care coordination and communication to transform primary care into “what patients want it to be.”  Research shows that medical homes can lead to higher quality and lower costs, and improve both patients’ and providers’ reported experience of care.    “Our patients become active members of a physician-led team composed of registered nurses, behavioral health providers, medical assistants, and clerical support staff,” said Andrea Gaulzetti, LCHC Chief of Clinical Operations.  “Together this team provides the necessary care coordination to assist patients and their families in meeting their best health outcomes and personal health goals.

“It is an honor to be recognized by NCQA,” said Dr. Scott Early, LCHC Chief Medical Officer.  “To address the nation’s health care crisis we must continuously improve the quality of care while eliminating waste.  Lynn Community Health Center has been a longtime leader in providing high-impact, low-cost care. We are proud to receive national recognition for our work.”

“The patient-centered medical home raises the bar in defining high-quality care by emphasizing access, health information technology, and partnerships between clinicians and patients,” said NCQA President Margaret E. O’Kane.  “PCMH Recognition shows that Lynn Community Health Center has the tools, systems, and resources to provide their patients with the right care at the right time.”

To receive recognition, which is valid for three years, Lynn Community Health Center demonstrated the ability to meet the programs key elements embodying characteristics of the medical home.  The standards are aligned with the joint principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home established with the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Osteopathic Association.