Fivel local physician groups recognized by state organization

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) has designated five Integrated Health Partners (IHP) physician practices as 'Patient-Centered Medical Homes.' Those include Dr. David Byrens, DayOne Family Healthcare (Drs. Ansorge, Galonsky, Lovio, Ptacin, and VanHuysen), Lakeview Family Practice (Dr. Collins), Mercy Community Physicians (Drs. Beard, Kranz, and Pascoe), and Marshall Medical Associates (Drs. Tom Dobbins, Machalka, and Piper).

Designation is a rigorous process involving evaluation of several quality and utilization practices, including following evidence-based care guidelines for chronic illness and preventive care. In addition, practices meet several criteria in key areas of practice related to access to care, information technology enhancements, and team-based care management. There are only 299 primary care practices statewide to receive this honor.

IHP was incorporated in 1995 as the Physician Hospital Organization of Battle Creek through a 50/50 venture between Battle Creek Health System and the Calhoun County Physicians Organization. A board of directors that represents area physicians and BCHS governs it.

IHP's mission is to improve the health status of the communities it serves by promoting accessible, cost-effective, quality care. IHP supports practices in developing processes to meet requirements of programs such as that of BCBSM. It also leads the Calhoun County Pathways to Health initiative, a multi-stakeholder endeavor including employers, health plans, providers of care, and consumers focused on improving chronic illness care and outcomes for residents of our county.

Battle Creek Health System, sponsored by two parent organizations--Trinity Health (the fourth largest Catholic health system in the U.S. with 21 hospitals, 9 nursing homes, 19 senior house facilities, 8 home health care agencies, and 4 hospices in Michigan alone) and BCHS Community Partners, is accredited by the Joint Commission. Battle Creek Health System, a member of the Mercy Cancer Network, is a recipient of the 2008 HealthGrades Orthopaedic Surgery Excellence Award(tm) and 2009 Five Star rated for joint replacement surgery and total knee replacement. HealthGrades is a leading health care information company that provides objective 'report card' ratings nationwide. BCHS provides excellent health care for the community and promotes wellness for the whole person with access and compassion for all. For the latest medical information, visit the BCHS web site at www.bchealth.com or call the BCHS Marketing Department at (269) 966-8132.

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