The Health Care Authority (HCA) in Washington State, in collaboration with state payment providers and primary care professionals, has developed an Enhanced Primary Care Program.

This initiative aims to standardize benchmarks, offer support for practice, and equip primary care facilities to adeptly transition to a value-based care paradigm. The Enhanced Primary Care Program initiative meets the quadruple objectives— enhancing the patient care experience, improving the health of populations, curtailing healthcare expenses, and bolstering the workplace environment for both clinicians and staff members.

These consultations resulted in the formation of a diverse group of six clinics from around the region committed to pilot-testing the Enhanced Primary Care Program. Laurel Avila, MBA, BSN, RN, and an accredited PCMH (Patient-Centered Medical Home) Content Expert, has taken on the Enhanced Primary Care Program Subject Matter Expert role, providing critical technical support to the participating clinics. This initiative promises to significantly enhance integrated care for individuals in the communities these clinics serve.