This year, for the first time,
Caravan Health is holding its Accountable Care Symposium virtually with the theme, ‘
Opening New Doors to the Future of Health Care’. In a year where many doors were shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ll focus on moving forward and creating new opportunities with the understanding that when one door closes – another opens.
Recently we talked with Dr. James Sams, a Family Physician who practices at
McKenzie Health System and Marcus Lewis, CEO/Administrator, at
First Care Health Center about this year’s virtual symposium.
What does the 2020 theme say to you?
ML: Healthcare was always a rapidly changing environment. Population health initiatives and ACO participation puts organizations at the forefront of these changes. I look forward to the unique ways to engage our communities in population health and educational activities for our future. Creativity will be paramount for initiatives to succeed.
Why do you recommend the Symposium to your peers?
JS: It is an excellent experience to be with the individuals that contribute to the intricate phenomenon known as an ACO. From the providers to the people that initiate and people who support the machinery that gives us important data that we rely on throughout the year.ML: Practice sharing! Understanding the successes and failures of similar organizations are vital to implementation and progress.
What have you gained from attending the Symposium in the past?
JS: An excellent insight on how to make “the process" work better. I’ve had several “ah ha” moments with revelations of what I thought I have a good understanding to see how things really were. It can almost be said with any time and healthcare, "these are challenging times in which we live". At this point, the symposium can act as a revival of optimism along with fueling excitement for the possibilities of the future.
How has attending the Symposium helped you, your staff, your organization?
JS: At the most recent American Association of Family Practice, there was yet another article focusing on the need for accountable care organizations as we move from fee-for-service. I feel blessed to be a part of an organization that has been participating in this for many years. It is surprising that many of my peers in medicine have not yet realized where we are heading. These are the same individuals that were initially resistant to use of electronic medical records and other advancements in medicine management. Advancements and technology can be intimidating to the point that some will not even make the first step. Being a member of this organization helps with support and offers encouragement to make the first step and take it to the next levels.
What do you think about this year’s Symposium being held virtually?
ML: It is important to follow the recommendations from the CDC and to set the example for appropriate gatherings. It will be different, but it is the right thing to do.