What is expected of a personal physician under the PCMH model?

Under the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, a fundamental expectation is for the personal physician to maintain a continuous relationship with patients. This model is designed to provide comprehensive and accessible healthcare that is centered around the patient's needs. It emphasizes long-term relationships where the physician becomes a trusted source of care, managing not only acute issues but also preventative care and chronic diseases.

This continuous relationship enables the physician to understand the patient's history, preferences, and overall health context, which is crucial for effective treatment and coordinated care. It fosters a more holistic approach to health management, allowing the physician to navigate various healthcare needs over time, rather than functioning solely in a reactive capacity as seen in other models.

While aspects like acute care and coordination with other providers are essential in a healthcare model, the defining characteristic of the PCMH is the enduring relationship between the patient and their personal physician. The focus here is on building trust and engaging with the patient in their health journey, rather than limiting interactions to specific instances or types of care.