Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026
Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Are primary care practices ready to become patient-centered medical homes?
Fred A Ullrich1, A Clinton MacKinney, Keith J Mueller
1Department of Health Management and Policy, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
Purpose:
To measure the readiness of rural primary care practices to qualify as patient-centered medical homes (PCMHs), one step toward participating in changes underway in health care finance and delivery.
Methods:
We used the 2008 Health Tracking Physician Survey to compare PCMH readiness scores among metropolitan and nonmetropolitan primary care practices. The National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA) assessment system served as a framework to assess the PCMH capabilities of primary care practices based on their services, processes, and policies.
Findings:
We found little difference between urban and rural practices. Approximately 41% of all primary care practices offer minimal or no PCMH services. We also found that large practices score higher on standards primarily related to information technology and care management.
Conclusions:
Achieving the benefits of the PCMH model in small rural practices may require additional national promotion, technical assistance, and financial incentives.
Related Concept Videos
01:13Patient-centered Care
01:30Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
01:18Introduction To Health Care Delivery System
The Institute of Medicine (IOM) advocates for a patient-centered, effective, safe, timely, equitable, and effective healthcare system. The National Priorities...
01:15Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
01:29Documentation in Long-Term and Home Healthcare Setting
Long-Term Care Facilities
01:26Methods Of Healthcare Delivery System
Managed Care System:
The managed care system is designed to control the cost while maintaining the quality of care. The patient's care from admission to discharge is planned by the primary care provider or the case manager, also known as the gatekeeper. In a managed care system, the number of care providers is limited...