Reflecting on CommonSpirit Health's Community-Centric Care Model

As a health information professional, I've have been observing and analyzing the impact of various healthcare initiatives. One program that has particularly caught my attention is CommonSpirit Health's community-centric care navigation model. Partnering with the Pathways Community HUB Institute (PCHI), this initiative has revolutionized the way we address social determinants of health and improve outcomes for high-risk populations. Read the article here.  I want to share three of my personal observations and insights on this transformative approach. 

1. Community Centric Care

In my profession, I have had the opportunity to observe some of the intricacies of CommonSpirit Health's program. The emphasis they place on community-centric care truly resonates with me. By acknowledging that health is influenced by broader social and economic factors, they have shifted the focus from clinical settings to the communities themselves. This means collaborating with community health workers and contracting local organizations to provide tailored care within the community. It is inspiring to see the impact of interventions that address the specific social needs of individuals and their families. Seeing the positive results reinforces my belief in the importance of community-based care. 

1. Cross Sector Collaboration

Another aspect that has impressed me is the cross-sector collaboration at the heart of this program. Bringing together health systems, payers, public entities, and community organizations has yielded remarkable results. By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, these stakeholders have united to identify and meet the needs of high-risk populations. This collaborative effort has truly transformed the way we approach healthcare. It is evident that by working together, we can address systemic factors contributing to health disparities and create a more comprehensive and effective model of care. The power of collective efforts cannot be underestimated. 

1. Outcome Based Payment

The outcome-based payment model employed by CommonSpirit Health is another noteworthy feature. By tracking health outcomes and directly tying payment to these results, the program incentivizes stakeholders to focus on effective interventions and be accountable for improving population health. This approach guarantees the efficient and optimal allocation of resources. 

Seeing incentives align with improved health outcomes has reinforced my belief in outcome-based models. It promotes ongoing improvement and delivers impactful care that truly makes a difference in people's lives. 

Conclusion

CommonSpirit Health's program is in alignment with the social determinants of health framework. By specifically targeting high-risk populations and addressing their unique social needs, they are addressing the root causes of health disparities. Their recognition that health extends beyond clinical care to encompass broader social and economic factors is commendable. This integrated approach emphasizes the importance of considering the social determinants of health within the context of individuals' communities. 

As a health information professional, I appreciate the impact of CommonSpirit Health's community-centric care navigation model. Through community-based care, cross-sector collaboration, and outcome-based payment models, they should set an exemplary standard for the healthcare industry. By prioritizing addressing social determinants of health and tailoring interventions to high-risk population needs, this program can create lasting change. I am glad to be part of an organization whose initiative emphasizes integrated, patient-centered care and recognizes the broader factors that influence health.

Disclosure : The author works for CommonSpirit Health.