Strong Area Health Center receives highest level certification

STRONG – Strong Area Health Center has been certified as a Level-Three Patient-Centered Medical Home, a widely recognized symbol of quality that is only earned by successfully passing a rigorous and thorough review.

The National Committee for Quality Assurance’s (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication, and patient involvement. Research shows that medical homes can lead to higher quality care and lower costs.

“As a level-three patient-centered medical home, our focus is to improve health outcomes for each patient we see,” said Dr. Ann Schwink. “Our cohesive team includes providers, nurses, front office staff, a behavioral health specialist, care manager and educator, as well as an outreach and enrollment specialist.”

“It is about establishing relationships,” said Nadene Pillsbury, practice manager. “Our health center team, work flow and coordination of care ensure that patients receive visits that are tailored to their needs and promote their personal health and wellness. The work we do is measured and reviewed through patient surveys and clinical reports.”

“The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of 21st century primary care that combines access, teamwork and technology to deliver quality care and improve health,” said NCQA president, Margaret E. O’Kane. “NCQA’s PCMH 2011 Recognition shows that Strong Area Health Center has tools, systems and resources to provide their patients with the right care at the right time.”

Strong Area Health Center is located at 177 North Main Street in Strong. For more information, contact the health center at (207) 684-4010 or visit www.StrongCHC.org.

Strong Area Health Center is one of 11 Federally Qualified Health Centers of HealthReach Community Health Centers. HealthReach has practices located throughout Central and Western Maine, dedicated to providing high quality healthcare to all individuals. Medicare, MaineCare and most major insurances are accepted. For individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, a sliding fee program that will reduce costs for health center visits is available. HealthReach is a private, non-profit organization that has been serving the communities of Maine for 39 years.