Loyola primary care physicians honored with Blue Ribbon rating from Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Loyola University Health System primary care physicians recently received a Blue Ribbon rating from Blue Cross and Blue Shield. This honor is given to physicians who have received a satisfaction rate of 85 percent or higher based on a member survey.

"It is wonderful to get this affirmation from our patients and to know our hard work and the compassionate care our doctors give is recognized," said Dr. Keith Veselik, medical director of primary care at Loyola University Health System.

In addition, a Blue Star is given when physicians meet or exceed the target care goal in nine categories. Loyola primary care physicians received nine out of nine stars for excellence in asthma care, diabetes care, mental health follow-up, childhood immunization, breast cancer screening, influenza vaccination, management of cardiovascular conditions, controlling high blood pressure and colorectal cancer screening.

"These nine areas are very important, but there are over 100 more that could be used as quality measurements. Our goal is to be excellent in providing care in all areas to our patients and I think we're doing a great job," said Veselik.

With an increasingly complex and confusing medical system, it is all the more important to have a primary care physician you can trust.

"You want a doctor who knows you and knows the specialists. He or she can help you get the care you need from the right person, at the right place and right time," said Veselik.

Though not as evident as not smoking, eating well or exercise, a relationship with a primary care physician is an indicator of health. If a person has a regular primary care provider he or she is more likely to have a healthier life in older years.

"We have a large network of highly qualified, compassionate doctors in neighborhoods across the Chicago area. When you come to Loyola for primary care you know you're getting a physician who is capable, caring and accessible," said Veselik. "Being a part of an academic health system we work closely with some of the nation's top specialists which allows our patients access to continued top-quality care. We also are there to personally help them understand the system and guide them through their medical journey."