Oregon Moves Toward Primary Care Home Model

The state of Oregon wants health care providers to adopt a primary care model designed for better health and lower costs, according to the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). Across the state, more than 80 clinics already have applied to be officially recognized by the state as “patient-centered primary care homes.” 
Primary care homes offer a team-based approach to care that is focused on keeping people healthy. At its heart, this model of care fosters strong relationships with patients and their families to better treat the whole person. Providers reduce costs and improve care by catching problems earlier, focusing on prevention and wellness, and integrating behavioral health care. The change is central to Oregon’s efforts to improve quality and reduce costs for people served by the Oregon Health Plan, according to OHA spokeswoman Karynn Fish. Under the proposed coordinated care organizations, patient-centered primary care homes will be a required element of any health system’s provider network. “This is a stamp of approval for people looking for clinics and providers that have made a public commitment to patient-centered care,” says Bruce Goldberg, M.D., OHA director.

Any health care practice in Oregon can now apply for recognition to be a patient-centered primary care home. The practice must demonstrate the ability to provide comprehensive services on-site or coordinated through a partnership with other providers in their community. Criteria, application forms and technical assistance are available online.

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