Enhancing the health care experience at the clinic Published Nov. 30, 2011 66th Medical Squadron HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- In the last two years, the Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH) has been gradually implemented at bases across the country and December 2011 signals the launch of the program at Hanscom. Officials say PCMH will offer many positive changes for active duty members, dependents and medical staff. Understanding these changes and what medical home means to patients is an important part of ensuring the program is a success. A medical home is a clinic or office where a team of health care professionals provide a "new, expanded" type of health care for their patients. It focuses on taking care of all of a person's healthcare needs, either in the Military Treatment Facility (MTF) or by coordinating with outside health care practices. A medical home provides care in a different way than what a patient receives in their primary care clinic, such as a family practice or pediatrics clinic. Care is more personalized, better coordinated and delivered by a whole team of health care members who put the patient and caregiver or family members at the center of the team. In addition, the health care team may include a doctor, physician assistant, nurse, medical technician and a medical management team. The medical home team coordinates the patient's health care across all settings, to include referrals within the MTF, as well as to outside, or network, providers. They put a priority on prevention and disease management in order to keep the patient healthy and work with the patient so that they can manage their own health in partnership with the team. The team knows the patient and puts a priority on providing care with their preferences, life situation and needs in mind. They involve the patient in all decisions regarding health care and treatment. The benefits of team-based care include improved partnership with the patient's dedicated health care team, an increase ease in making appointments with the health care team and a continuity of care for the patient and family. Beginning Dec. 8, in an effort to reduce wait time and improve patient satisfaction, the Hanscom Call Center will be located within the clinic. Patients may call 781-225-6789 and follow the prompts to speak with an individual about making an appointment. Patients may also book appointments 24/7 at www.tricareonline.com. As the clinic moves towards adopting team-based care, the patient's satisfaction will be the key to the success of the program. The clinic believes team-based care will make it easier for a person and their family to stay healthy.