Health P.E.I. is implementing a unique care model at UPEI’s patient medical home by connecting individuals with an entire team of healthcare providers instead of just one primary caregiver. This strategy aims to enhance staff recruitment efforts and avoid situations where patients are left without care due to a provider’s departure.
Laurae Kloschinsky, the interim CEO of Health P.E.I., highlighted that patients at the medical home may interact with various healthcare professionals during their visits, ensuring they receive specialized care tailored to their needs. The team-based approach emphasizes collaboration and shared records among providers for seamless continuity of care.
Since its inception, UPEI’s patient medical home has enrolled 2,600 individuals, with 1,250 already linked to a team of providers established in recent months. Additional patients are in the process of being affiliated with team-based care, signifying a growing uptake of this innovative model.
To support this initiative, Health P.E.I. has recruited four nurse practitioners and a new physician for the medical home, with plans to officially launch the team-based affiliation in the near future. Kevin Workentin, the department head of family medicine at Health P.E.I., expressed optimism that this pilot program will enhance patient access and healthcare provider satisfaction.
The team-based approach at UPEI’s patient medical home seeks to address challenges faced by traditional primary care models, offering a more collaborative and sustainable care delivery system. Health P.E.I. aims to leverage this experiment to refine healthcare services and improve patient outcomes across Prince Edward Island.