Helping health care move to value-based payment
There's a seismic shift in health care reimbursements beginning next year, and a local effort stands ready to help clinicians prepare. In January, Medicare is slated to begin the process of paying for health care outcomes, rather than services.
Finger Lakes Health Systems Agency is offering support to primary care, pediatrics and specialty care providers as part of New York State’s new Practice Transformation Network. The no-cost program coaches practice staff on new ways to engage patients in their own care, help staff work together as a team, and use data to hone in on areas of concern. Learn more here.
As pain killer overdoses dropped, heroin overdoses climbed in region from 2012-14
A new data analysis from FLHSA finds that the spike in heroin overdoses in our region between 2012 and 2014 was accompanied by a marked decline in overdoses from prescription pain medications.
“As access to prescription pain medication has decreased, the Finger Lakes region has witnessed a sharp increase in the use of heroin, which is less expensive and easier to obtain,” said Dr. Thomas Mahoney, chief medical officer for FLHSA.
The study also shows that that drug addiction is widespread, crossing all demographics and localities in the nine county region. See more in a press release and data brief.
Partner spotlight
IHMC's spiritual path to health is a "game changer"
When tackled alone, eating healthier, exercising more and managing stress can feel overwhelming. That’s why a group of volunteer faith leaders called the Interdenominational Health Ministry Coalition is helping members connect spiritual teachings and healthy living.
Founded in 2010, IHMC now works with 18 congregations by providing toolkits and organizing health conferences and programs like the High Blood Pressure Collaborative’s Healthy Blood Pressure Through Faith and Lifestyle project.
“IHMC is a game changer,” says Wade Norwood, chief strategy officer of FLHSA. “They’re helping us frame mental and physical health as a spiritual matter, and it’s working.” Read more.
Poverty simulation to spotlight rural issues
All are invited to take part in the eye-opening “Walk In My Shoes” Rural Poverty Simulation, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 20 at the Genesee River Restaurant, 134 North Main St., Mt. Morris. Modeled after a similar event FLHSA sponsored in 2015, the rural poverty simulation will immerse decision makers in situations that people living in poverty face each day as a way to cultivate greater understanding of the barriers to economic self-sufficiency. Register online.
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