SouthCoast Health receives national recognition as Patient-Centered Medical Home

SouthCoast Health, the Savannah-based medical organization formerly known as SouthCoast Medical Group, recently received national recognition as a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). The practice successfully met the program's highest standards of patient-centered processes focusing on highly coordinated care and longterm patient-clinician relationships to earn the distinction, which is valid for three years.

The organization attained Level 3 recognition — the highest possible PCMH distinction — at its primary care offices throughout Savannah, Richmond Hill, and Pooler; and its pediatric offices in Savannah, Richmond Hill, and Rincon.

The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of primary care that emphasizes coordinated care and communication across the healthcare system to improve patient experience and reduce costs. Recognized Medical Homes foster ongoing, participative partnerships between patients and their personal clinicians to approach patient care both comprehensively and preventatively. Medical Home clinicians demonstrate the benchmarks of patient-centered care, including open scheduling, expanded hours, and appropriate use of proven health information systems to transform primary care into "what patients want it to be."

"We're honored to receive this important recognition," said SouthCoast Health Administrator, John Marrero. "The recognition reflects our commitment to partnering with our patients to achieve their complete health and wellness."

NCQA President Margaret E. O'Kane commended the practice for achieving the highest level of PCMH recognition. "NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition raises the bar in defining high-quality care by emphasizing access, health information technology, and coordinated care focused on patients," said O'Kane. "The recognition shows that SouthCoast Health has the tools, systems, and resources to provide its patients with the right care, at the right time."