Governor Matt Mead is supporting an initiative to deliver primary care through medical homes. Medical homes are directly linked to lower health care costs and improved outcomes for some patients. The funding from Governor Mead and the Legislature is providing assistance for 16 medical practices to explore medical homes. The Wyoming Integrated Care Network and a consultant are assisting interested practices. Two hospitals in Wyoming already support medical practices, which have implemented the medical home model. Mead says  medical homes are a solution driven by the private market and they have shown promise in improving the delivery of health care in Wyoming. Specifically, medical homes could reduce costs and improve outcomes in a way that respects the needs of Wyoming people.  Mead says patients of a pilot medical home operating in Cheyenne saw a reduction in emergency room visits and in avoidable hospital admissions. At the same time these patients had improved health outcomes.

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