The healthcare industry has undergone massive changes in recent decades. With rising costs and aging populations, the traditional model of primary care physicians as gatekeepers is evolving.
Team-Based Care is the Future
The days of the solo practitioner are ending. We’re moving towards integrated, team-based care with a mix of providers.
Benefits of the Team Approach
- Improved access and coordination
- Shared accountability and collaboration
- Holistic, patient-centered care
Bringing together various types of clinicians allows them to work at the top of their licenses. It leverages their unique skills and expertise.
Models of Team-Based Care
There are many types of team-based models:
- Primary care teams with physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants
- Specialist-led teams (e.g. cancer centers)
- Community health teams
The exact composition depends on the patient population and needs. But good communication and clear roles are critical.
Technology is Enabling Virtual Care Teams
Innovations in health IT allow providers to collaborate remotely. Team members can be in different locations.
Telehealth Connects Providers
With telehealth, clinicians can consult with colleagues across the country. Specialists can beam into primary care settings when needed. This expands access to expertise.
Remote Monitoring Keeps Teams in Sync
Chronic disease patients can be monitored remotely with at-home devices. This allows providers to intervene early before conditions worsen. Data is shared between team members.
Health Information Exchanges Enable Data Sharing
Systems like Epic allow vital information to be shared between unaffiliated providers. This paints a more complete picture of the patient.
Patients are Adapting to Team-Based Care
For some, it may feel less personal at first. But there are ways to maintain strong relationships.
Care Teams Must Earn Patients’ Trust
Taking time to explain roles and communicate clearly is key. Patients who feel dismissed or confused will disengage.
Continuity of Care Must Be Preserved
Seeing the same set of faces at each visit helps patients build rapport. Even in large groups, individual providers can be assigned.
Patient Engagement is Critical
Teams should elicit patients’ priorities and make shared decisions. Engaged patients have better health outcomes.
The Ideal Composition of a Care Team
There is no single formula for structuring a care team. But some best practices are emerging.
Primary Care as Quarterback
The PCP quarterback navigates patients through the system and coordinates care. They oversee prevention and chronic disease management.
Nurse Practitioners for Access
Incorporating collaborating physician nurse practitioners increases access and flexibility. They can treat minor illnesses and handle chronic care.
Pharmacists for Medication Optimization
With in-depth drug knowledge, pharmacists ensure complex regimens are safe and effective. They can advise on lower-cost options too.
By identifying social determinants like food and housing insecurity, social workers remove barriers to health. They connect patients to community resources.
Dietitians for Nutrition Support
For chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, dietitians provide personalized nutrition advice and counseling. They help patients modify eating habits.
Conclusion
Team-based, patient-centered care is becoming the standard. Communication, coordination and trust are essential to make it work. The results are worth it – improved outcomes, lower costs and better patient and provider experiences.