Since introducing the care management program to our practice, it has made a noticeable difference in patient care. Patients are now educated on the importance of calling the office before going to the emergency room. A follow up call is given to the patient to offer an appointment if they go to the emergency room. This has guided patients out of the emergency room and given them more involvement in their care.

The ACO will help better foster our relationships with patients and other health care providers and help form that bridge to other doctors and hospitals, and even to insurers like Medicare.