We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of our partnership with Florida State University Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program, marking a significant milestone in our journey toward excellence in healthcare. This partnership has been instrumental in shaping our practices, enhancing patient care, and strengthening our commitment to providing top-notch services to our community.
Nicolette, completing routine site visit to one of the NFMC locations.
“The partnership with NFMC has been a successful five-year collaboration. NFMC was very committed, even during the COVID crisis, to making organization-wide improvements to better support the care of their older patients. Things like checking for fall risk, using larger print forms, and enhanced screening for age-related conditions are now occurring across all their clinics that are a pillar for healthcare access in their communities across north Florida. The staff really care about their older patients and were always eager to learn more from our FSU Geriatrics team.” – said Nicolette Castagna, Community Engagement Lead
At the core of this collaboration are the dedicated efforts of both teams, whose tireless work has truly made a difference. We would like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the key achievements and contributions that have emerged from this partnership.
Donna Stroh, our EHR Director, spearheaded initiatives aimed at streamlining our electronic medical record (EMR) system to better serve our patients. Through her leadership, we developed EMR tools such as templates and order sets tailored to Medicare initial preventive exam visits and annual wellness visits. These tools have not only improved efficiency but have also ensured accurate documentation and coding, ultimately enhancing the quality of care we provide to our geriatric population.
Additionally, Donna led the charge in utilizing the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) reporting for data collection. This invaluable resource has allowed us to measure and improve the quality of care for our geriatric patients, furthering our commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery. Donna also oversaw the revision of intake forms with larger fonts for easier reading and implemented various applications like VIM, ACO Vytalize, and Healow Insights to enhance the EMR system. These tools alert providers to care and diagnosis gaps, helping us meet compliance with the FSU/GWEP measures. Notably, we introduced the 65+ Questionnaire to reduce falls, medication issues, and identify elder maltreatment, as well as enhancing the Social History section to better understand patient well-being and care needs for those 65 and older.
In tandem with Donna’s efforts, Travis Coker, our Director of Center Operations, implemented numerous safety and accessibility enhancements across all our locations. From installing grab bars and chairs with arms to ensuring larger print materials and signage, Travis has made significant strides in creating a safer and more comfortable environment for our elderly patients. Additionally, educational videos with adjusted sound volumes now facilitate easier communication with our elderly patients. These enhancements not only improve patient experience but also underscore our dedication to providing compassionate and respectful care.
Roberto “RJ” Singleton, our Marketing and Public Relations Director, oversaw the development of digital assets and campaigns to support ongoing communication. RJ developed and produced content such as brochures, door hangers, table toppers, and medication bags, while also coordinating with key contacts to access videos featured on center televisions. His efforts have been crucial in ensuring consistent and effective communication throughout our organization.
“NFMC and FSU GWEP partnership has been instrumental for our clinical transformation to be more age friendly. The monthly meetings and monthly case studies has enhanced our staffs’ education to care for the older generation with a smile and welcoming environment. This collaboration has been a benefit to NFMC continued success.” – said Lane Lunn, CEO
Together, these initiatives represent the holistic impact of our partnership with FSU. By integrating innovative solutions, improving access to care, and fostering a culture of excellence, we have reaffirmed our commitment to upholding best practices across all our centers.
“North Florida Medical’s collaboration with Florida State University Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program has provided NFM’s providers with the knowledge and clinical expertise to better evaluate and manage our aging population. The association has also enabled NFM to identify and improve our centers to better accommodate and serve our population 65 and over.” – said Dr. Patrick Brown, Chief Medical Officer
As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire team for their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. We look forward to building upon the successes of this partnership as we continue to strive for excellence in healthcare delivery.
Here’s to a bright future filled with continued collaboration, innovation, and excellence in patient care.