citizensmemorial.com 9 “I don’t do everything for them,” Keller says. “I want them to know how to handle situations after they finish the program. We are really helping them take control of their health.” CMH’s program is among the first of its kind in a rural health care setting. Established programs in other communities report fewer ambulance transports, emergency room visits and hospitalizations among MIH patients. MIH impact The MIH team is already seeing positive results from the program. These examples show how MIH is affecting our patients: ● A person with diabetes now has the disease under control. ● A formerly homebound patient in a wheelchair is now using a walker and getting out of the house, even meeting neighbors. ● A patient who needed someone other than a family member to say “You really need to see a doctor” went to the doctor and is addressing multiple health concerns. ● Patients are taking medications more regularly. “MIH gives reassurance not only to the health care team but, most important, to the patient and the community CMH serves,” says Lorie Bruce, a transitional care manager and MIH team member. Referral process MIH is for patients who could benefit from additional health care support but have barriers to accessing it. As an extension of primary care, MIH is physician-led. If you think you or someone you know could benefit from MIH, please discuss it with your primary care provider. Outside referrals may be faxed to 417-328-1190 for scheduling. Steve Keller checks vital signs for a patient at home. A new vehicle, above, enables community paramedics to bring health care to people who might not otherwise have access to it.
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