This month we’re highlighting the “good” work of one of our client’s awards in action. In 2014, Community Health Network received a $1.5 million cooperative agreement funded by HRSA’s Nurse Education, Practice, Quality and Retention (NEPQR) mechanism. With the triple aim of better care, better health, and lower costs in mind, Community Health Network is testing an interprofessional collaborative care model beginning in its Community East Family Medicine Center, an NCQA-certified patient-centered medical home.

Community has developed an interprofessional collaborative practice team of over 40 members, including physicians, nurse practitioners, RNs, LPNs, medical assistants, intensive care staff, and support staff. Dr. Gene Beyt, Executive Director of The Positive Healthcare Network and expert in interventional learning and relationally coordinated care, has been providing consultation to strengthen interdisciplinary teamwork. Team activities have included value stream mapping, Green and White Belt Six Sigma training, process improvement projects for specific points of care throughout the Network, and more.

As the team looks ahead to expanding this model throughout the extensive Network, it is engaging and collaborating with physician leaders to ensure the inclusivity and effectiveness of the interprofessional model of care. We look forward to checking in with the NEPQR award team again as it continues to improve patient outcomes and strengthen Community Health Network’s healthcare workforce through this innovative, impactful project.