Thompson's practices are all certified level 3 Patient-Centered Medical Homes.

What is a patient-centered medical home?

A patient-centered medical home is a system of care in which a team of health professionals works together with you, the patient – and where appropriate your family – to provide you with the best possible health outcomes. Your primary care provider leads the care team working
together with you as the center.

How do patient-centered medical homes benefit the patient?

In a medical home, your care team:

• Is available when you need us. We will tell you when our office hours are and how to get clinical advice 24/7, during and after office hours.
• Strives to know you and your health history so we can suggest the best treatment options.
• Will focus on preventive care to keep you as healthy as possible.
• Makes sure that you understand your condition(s) and how to best take care of yourself.
• Helps you coordinate your health care across the healthcare system, making sure that specialists have the information they need to care for you.
• Arranges for mental health services and support to help with conditions such as depression and stress.
• Uses technology to share records to help eliminate duplicate testing.

How do you get the most from your medical home?

Your care team will:

• Get to know you and the aspects of your life which affect your health and well-being. We will update our records with your help each time you seek care.
• Listen to your questions and concerns and treat you as a full partner in your care.
• Communicate with you.
  • Clearly explain your health situation and make sure you are aware of all the options for your care.
  • Give you time to ask questions and get answers.
  • Ask you for feedback about your patient experience and how we can better serve your healthcare needs.
  • Provide you with the information you need to obtain care and advice during office hours and when the office is closed.
• Provide access to evidence-based care and self-management support.
• Provide treatment and recommend preventive services based on evidence-based guidelines for care facilitated by electronic medical records.
• Help you set and meet goals for your care.
• Educate you about your condition and ways to stay healthy. Gives you details about hospital-based classes and community services.

What can you do?

• Be in charge of your health.
  • Know that you are a full partner in your care.
  • Learn about your health situation and what you can do to stay as healthy as possible.
  • Understand your financial obligations related to your health.
• Participate in your care.
  • Follow the plan that you and your medical team have agreed is the best for your health.
  • Help us to identify any barriers you may have in following your treatment plan.
  • Take medications as prescribed or let us know why you are unable to do so.
  • Keep scheduled appointments or reschedule them if a conflict arises.
• Communicate with your care team.
  • Ask questions.
  • Bring your list of medications, herbal supplements and vitamins to your appointment.
  • Tell us if there is any change in your health or well-being since your last visit.
  • Tell your medical team if you get care from other health professionals (including any hospitalizations)