May 31, 2023 at 4:45 p.m.

WindRose Health Network Earns PCMH Recognition and Distinction in Behavioral Health Integration Status



By Sarah Ward

WindRose Health Network, a leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) healthcare provider in central Indiana, is pleased to announce that it has once again achieved PCMH (Patient-Centered Medical Home) recognition, demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. In addition, the organization received the Distinction in Behavioral Health Integration status, further enhancing its comprehensive approach to healthcare.

PCMH Recognition is awarded by National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and signifies that WindRose Health Network has met rigorous standards in team-based care, practice organization, patient management, patient-centered access and continuity, care management and support, and performance measurement and quality improvement. By adhering to these requirements, WindRose Health Network ensures that its patients receive coordinated, personalized care that focuses on their specific needs.

To achieve and maintain PCMH Recognition, WHN has implemented several key initiatives. The organization holds regular team huddles to facilitate effective communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals. A designated PCMH Program Manager and Clinician Lead oversee the implementation of the PCMH model and support the staff in adhering to the program's requirements. Staff members actively participate in quality improvement activities to continuously enhance the care provided to patients.

Knowing and managing patients is a fundamental aspect of the PCMH model. WHN ensures that patient information is up-to-date and comprehensive, including problem lists, active diagnoses, medical history, mental health, and medical history, family/social/cultural characteristics, communication needs, behaviors affecting health, social functioning, social determinants of health, developmental screenings for pediatric patients, and advance care planning. The organization conducts depression and behavioral health screenings, assesses the diversity and language needs of patients, and proactively reminds them of necessary services linked to immunizations, preventative care, and chronic care services.

Patient-centered access and continuity are prioritized at WHN. Timely clinical advice is provided. Care management and support play a vital role in the PCMH model at WHN. Patients who require care management, including behavioral health, are identified using social determinants of health, complex conditions, and high utilization factors. Care plans are developed for these patients to facilitate coordinated care.

“Performance measurement and quality improvement are integral components of WHN’s commitment to delivering exceptional care,” said Laura Pryor, chief quality officer. The organization monitors at least five clinical quality measures across immunization, preventative care, chronic or acute care, and behavioral health domains. Patient experience is assessed through satisfaction surveys and direct feedback, with a focus on availability of major appointment types and meeting patient needs and preferences for access. WHN measures resource stewardship and implements measures to improve the patient experience. Quality measures are reported to staff and individual clinicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.

In addition to the PCMH Recognition, WHN has also earned the Distinction in Behavioral Health Integration status from NCQA. This distinction highlights the organization's exceptional integration of behavioral health services within its primary care setting. By seamlessly incorporating mental health and substance use services into its comprehensive care model, WHN ensures that patients receive holistic and well-rounded healthcare.

"Ensuring the highest level of care and support for our patients has always been at the heart of WindRose Health Network's mission," said Sott Rollett, chief executive officer of WindRose Health Network. "Earning PCMH Recognition and the Distinction in Behavioral Health Integration status exemplifies our commitment to delivering comprehensive, patient-centered care. We believe in treating the whole person, addressing not only their physical health but also their mental and emotional well-being. By integrating behavioral health services into our primary care setting, we are better equipped to support our patients holistically. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals is focused on knowing and managing our patients, providing timely access, and fostering a continuous care relationship. These recognitions reflect the dedication and hard work of our entire team, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community."



HOPE