New initiative set to improve 2 MDG healthcare

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. John Gordinier
  • 2nd Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The 2nd Medical Group is implementing a new Department of Defense initiative to create a patient-centered medical home in the Family Health Clinic.
 
Medical homes at Barksdale and other Air Force Global Strike Command bases will provide effective communication, enhanced patient care, appropriate competency and team ownership.

"The intent of this new initiative is to maximize your continuity of care with the same provider, nurse and technician in your respective Family Health Team for every appointment," said Maj. Milton Johnson, 2 MDG group practice manager. "While we understand that 100-percent continuity is not possible in every case, continuity of care is the forefront of our mission."

To meet the intent of the new program, the Family Health Clinic is being re-designed to accomplish two major goals, said Major Johnson. The first goal is to create an enjoyable and productive healthcare environment promoting a team approach to meeting patients' healthcare needs. The second goal is to ensure people receive their care from their assigned Primary Care Manager.

To enable this process, it is necessary to re-align or re-assign some beneficiaries to a new PCM, said Master Sgt. Michael Amos, 2 MDG assistant practice manager.

"You may receive a letter with your new PCM identified," Sergeant Amos continued. "Internally within the 2 MDG, all providers are being assigned to teams. When your provider is unavailable, we will make an attempt to provide you an appointment within the team before referring you to off-base care."

Major Johnson said every effort will be made to schedule patients with their provider or the provider's team. Regardless of re-assignment, all patients will continue to call the appointment line at (318) 456-6555 for their patient care needs. In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for treatment.

"During this time of transition, we would like to thank you for your patience as we institute this new initiative," Sergeant Amos said. "We are working hard to increase our access to quality healthcare and provide the best possible care in an efficient manner."

For more information about TRICARE benefits, call TRICARE South-Humana Military at 1-800-444-5445, or visit the local TRICARE Service Center here at the 2 MDG at 243 Curtiss Rd. Ste 100.