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COMMUNITY IMPACT 2020 Preventative care and management of chronic conditions is key
Three years ago, Great Plains Health Innovation Network (GPHIN) was established in North Platte. This Clinically Integrated Network (CIN) is a physician-led organization that focuses on preventative care and management of chronic conditions for patients. “The main goal is to help patients manage their care, identify chronic conditions early and prevent chronic conditions from worsening,” said Andrea Eaton, GPHIN executive director. “Rather than patients being seen only when they are having problems with their health, we are transforming primary care practices into patient-centered-medical-homes that focus on whole-patient care. This involves regular visits and preventative screenings to identify any health issues or changes in chronic conditions early.” GPHIN care coordinators can help patients coordinate visits between different doctors, review and reconcile prescribed medications, and connect them with services offered in the community at little or no cost. “We want to help patients get the right services, from the right provider, at the right time,” stated
Eaton. “It’s basically like having a friend or family member who is a nurse––someone who knows the system, that can help patients navigate and receive the best possible care.” Eaton explained, “Care coordinators also provide education on chronic conditions, healthy choices, diet, exercise and much more. They help the patient set achievable goals and help keep the patient on track through regular phone calls. The frequency of calls is dependent on the patient’s needs and preferences.”
“Themain goal is to help patients manage their care, identify chronic conditions early and prevent chronic conditions fromworsening.”
AndreaEaton Great PlainsHealth InnovationNetwork executive director
Local resident recommends care coordination services fromGreat Plains Health
Harold Poff, of North Platte, Neb. is no stranger to health problems. “I have type two diabetes, heart issues and kidney issues, just to name a few,” explained Poff. He was referred to the Great Plains Health Innovation Network (GPHIN) care coordination program by his primary physician, Dr. Carlson, “I started out talking to GPHIN care coordinator Tammy, RN, every week. We discussed my health concerns, appointments and current medication. “There was some accountability there,” he continued. “I knew someone would call me to check in. But it didn’t feel like pressure, it felt like someone really cared.” Poff said the program has helped him establish a healthy diet, taking all his health risks into consideration. “Julie, GPHIN Health Coach, ARPN-NP, helped to create a plan that would work for me and my specific needs,” Poff explained. Now that he has been in the care coordination program for a while and is doing well managing his conditions, the phone calls happen on a monthly basis. “They work with your needs and your schedule.” Poff said he would recommend the program to others––especially those who may not be well-connected in the community. “Great Plains Health Innovation Network will help you find the best possible care, and you will always have someone looking out for you.”
“I knew someone would call me to check in. But it didn’t feel like pressure, it felt like someone really cared.”
- HaroldPoff NorthPlatte resident
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