PCMH in a College Setting: A Brown Primary Care Transformation Initiative.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Primary Care Models
• Academic Health Centers

Background:

• The Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) is a leading primary care model, yet its implementation in college health settings is emerging.
• College health environments present unique challenges due to the developmental stage of young adults.
• The Brown Primary Care Transformation Initiative (BPCTI) aimed to adapt PCMH principles within a university health center.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of PCMH practice transformation efforts within a university health center.
• To identify strengths and challenges associated with implementing PCMH in a college health setting.
• To assess the effectiveness of the Brown Primary Care Transformation Initiative (BPCTI).

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing baseline and follow-up data.
• Data collection included interviews, surveys, focus groups, and observations.
• The evaluation was part of a broader transformation initiative within the college health practice.

Main Results:

• Concurrent transformation activities, including BPCTI facilitation, positively impacted the college health setting.
• The initiative provided insights into the specific strengths and challenges of PCMH transformation in this context.
• The study suggests a synergistic effect of multiple transformation efforts.

Conclusions:

• PCMH transformation is feasible and beneficial in college health settings.
• Understanding the unique needs of young adults is crucial for successful primary care transformation.
• This initiative offers valuable lessons for other academic health centers pursuing practice transformation.