The eMatchPhysicians Blog

The new healthcare law, however, has done more than open up coverage to the uninsured.  It also endeavors to improve quality patient care on a more proactive level.  These policies are encouraging the application of new programs such as the “patient-centered medical home” which would provide care with a doctor-led team of nurses and physician assistants.  Patient care would be delivered on a bigger scale so that more people are seen than could be seen with doctor appointments alone.  Dr. Sam Jones of Fairfax Family Practice Centers in Virginia has already implemented this program in his large medical group, and more “medical homes” are under way in other parts of the country through the American Academy of Family Physicians and Medicare.

Electronic medical records are also being adopted by practices all over the country to keep patient information as up to date as possible.  There is even an online service called My Preventive Care that allows the patients to access their medical record, answer health related questions, and then receive wellness steps to consider.  “It prevents things from falling through the cracks,” says Dr. Alex Krist of Fairfax Family Practice.  Thanks to these preventative measures, he has seen an increase of up to 12% for cancer screenings and cholesterol checks from patients.

The shortage of primary care physicians will challenge the health industry as the demand for healthcare increases dramatically with the new health bill in effect.  Fortunately, measures are being taken to meet this patient demand, although the fact remains that the US will be in dire need of internists and family practitioners before the end of the next decade.