Akron Children’s primary care practices received PCMH recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for the fifth straight year. Here’s what you need to know.
What is PCMH?
The patient centered medical home is not a place – but a care model that provides patient-focused care, improves quality and reduces health care costs.
Why is PCMH important?
PCMH aligns Akron Children’s with the best primary care practices in America. PCMH standards have helped us build better relationships among our patients, providers and staff.
How has patient care at Akron Children’s Pediatrics changed since earning PCMH recognition?
It’s taken our focus on patient-centered care to a new level. We now do a better job of planning patients’ visits and anticipating their needs, such as getting caught up on vaccines or having their yearly wellness checkup. We’ve also improved coordination among the entire care team – from the primary care providers to behavioral health experts, case managers and social workers. In fact, 15 Akron Children’s Pediatrics practices earned NCQA’s “Distinction in Behavioral Health Integration” for having Akron Children’s behavioral health therapists integrated in the primary care offices.
Why do I get asked to complete a form about home safety, food and other issues at my child’s well visit?
PCMH isn’t just about medical care. It helps us care for the whole child and identify ways we can support families to allow children to thrive.
Does a medical home mean I can’t take my child anywhere else?
No, families are free to see any provider in the Akron Children’s Pediatrics network. While we want to nurture the patient/provider relationship, we know access matters to many families. Sometimes a same-day visit at another office is more important than waiting a day for the provider who knows your child best. Or maybe a virtual visit is more convenient than coming to the office. We want to give families the flexibility to choose when, where and how to seek care at Akron Children’s.
What is the NCQA?
It’s an independent, nonprofit organization that drives health care improvement and highlights top performers such as Akron Children’s Pediatrics.
If your child needs a pediatrician, find one at an Akron Children’s Pediatrics office near you.
