375th MDG has new model for primary care Published Feb. 3, 2010 By 375th Medical Group 375th Air Mobility Wing SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The 375th Medical Group is currently transitioning to a new model for providing primary care called, "Medical Home." The underlying principle of Medical Home is to align each patient with their provider or provider team to establish a patient-centered, team-based healthcare roadmap for each patient led by the patient's personal provider. The concept has been endorsed by the leading primary care physician organizations of the United States, and is being incorporated as an inspectable item by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care and has become a key component in health care reform. More specifically, the goal for the patient and provider team is to build a relationship that: 1) maximizes patient involvement, 2) optimizes the use of the entire team's skill sets, 3) provides continuity of care (i.e. seeing your own provider), 4) and improve communication thereby enhancing quality of care and patient safety. Patients will be able to contact their provider team and make appointments with the provider they already know. Though it is unlikely that every appointment will be with the same provider due to urgent care needs, mission requirements and provider availability, the 375th MDG is striving to schedule all appointments with the same provider team. To keep on target with this concept, the 375th Medical Group has changed the walk-in Non-Flyer Active Duty Troop Clinic/Sick Call to an appointments only system. With this change, all non-flyer, active duty members will need to call 256-WELL (9355) for an appointment. This allows for not only greater flexibility in scheduling appointments; but also greater flexibility in appointment templates to address peak utilization with intent to improve access for all enrollees. (Because of its unique operational issues, Flight Medicine must continue its morning only sick call from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Appointments can be made with Flight Medicine also by calling 256-WELL. The 375th MDG recognizes that change can be disruptive, but leadership and staff are absolutely dedicated to the best possible healthcare with the best possible service for Team Scott and beneficiaries.