The NCMS recently assisted Pediatric Partners of Raleigh in becoming a level three Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH), the highest recognition standard for 2011 released by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). As a PCMH, Pediatric Partners utilizes health information technology (HIT) for systematic patient-centered and coordinated care management processes to ensure that their patients get the evidence-based care that they need. While Pediatric Partners is one of only three private practices to achieve 2011 Recognition, North Carolina ranks third highest in all PCMH/PPC medical homes nationwide.

“Critically evaluating your practice against PCMH 2011 standards involves various challenges related to information technology, innovation and implementation of practice changes, measuring outcomes, achieving each standard goal, and then finally preparing documentation for NCQA submission,” says Georgette (Gigi) Gura, DNP, CPNP, CRRN, who championed the PCMH initiative and prepared the 2011 NCQA submission at Pediatric Partners.

Pediatric Partners was founded by NCMS member Terry Brenneman, MD, in 2006. As part of attaining level three PCMH distinction, Pediatric Partners implemented additional technology including a patient portal and evaluated provider performance and patient experience survey results. Working toward this distinction also required the practice to work together in order to adjust to the changes associated with PCMH. “Seeing each other regularly and being able to work well together allowed for a smooth transition to PCMH,” said Melanie Walker, MD. Pediatric Partners is now able to incorporate modern medical knowledge and technology to provide interactive and quality care to their patients.   

Ms. Gura also praised the assistance of the NCMS Foundation. “As an early adopter, I found it valuable to have Terri Gonzalez, NCMS Foundation Practice Technical Assistance Coordinator, to collaborate with while preparing PCMH 2011 NCQA submission for recognition.  She is very knowledgeable and easily accessible.”

The NCMS Foundation offers consulting services and technical assistance to NCMS members in order to help practices become PCMH recognized. Members can contact Terri at 919-833-3836 or [email protected] for information regarding PCMH consultations and recognition.