A Promising Model to Advance Patient-Centeredness and Equity in Health Care

One of the emerging models of health care delivery system re-design is the concept of a “medical home”. In 2007, the American Academy of Family Practice, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Physicians and American Osteopathic Association issued a Joint Principles defining patient-centered medical homes.

While the specific terminology and elements of a medical home (also being called a “health care home”, “primary care home” or “advanced primary care practice”) vary, the core idea is that everyone should have a partnership with a primary care provider who will provide access to comprehensive, coordinated, high quality health care.

Medical homes will be given a huge catalyst with the imminent widespread adoption of health information technology by physician practices, community health centers and hospitals.

I have compiled some key analyses and background resources on the concept of medical homes.