Mainstreaming health and wellness: The RHWP Innovation model to complement primary care.

Area of Science:

• Community Health
• Primary Care Innovation
• Social Determinants of Health

Background:

• Primary care settings face challenges in providing holistic care due to multiple chronic conditions and complex social needs.
• Existing healthcare models struggle to address the impact of social determinants of health on healthcare utilization and outcomes.
• There is a need for innovative approaches to enhance value-based care by integrating social needs into health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an innovative health and wellness model designed as an adjunct to primary care.
• To address the unmet needs of individuals facing complex social determinants of health.
• To reduce the burden on primary care providers (PCPs) and improve patient access to timely care.

Main Methods:

• An academic-community based partnership was established.
• A wellness program was developed and delivered on-site to residents of low-income and disabled adult apartment buildings.
• Student learning was integrated into the program delivery.

Main Results:

• The model provides a complementary service to primary care, addressing holistic needs.
• It alleviates pressure on PCPs to provide a full range of services.
• It reduces barriers for under- or uninsured patients seeking care.

Conclusions:

• The described health and wellness model offers a practical solution to enhance primary care delivery.
• This innovative approach effectively integrates community resources and academic partnerships.
• The model supports value-based care by addressing social determinants and improving patient outcomes.