The heat is on- and I'm not just talking about the weather! After celebrating the landmark victory of healthcare reform this spring, we are now faced with the critical stage of implementation. It is a time that will challenge all of us to re-prioritize and take necessary steps to build a foundation of strong primary care that will reduce costs, improve quality and reduce disparities that have for too long made us a nation of health care haves and have-nots.
 
As we see it, there are two major tasks that we must undertake.  First, is the expansion of primary care capacity, so everyone has access to services - not just health insurance.  Second, is transforming the model of care into one that is integrated and patient-centered, so we can achieve the quality improvements and cost savings essential to meaningful reform. 
 
We look forward to working with our many partners to make this expansion and transformation a reality. In this issue, you will read about how our Capital Financing program is adding primary care capacity throughout the state, as we kick off deployment of our $40 million New Markets Loan Fund. And how we are helping providers in New York and Los Angeles navigate and take full advantage of new opportunities, including patient-centered medical home recognition and meaningful use of health information technology.
 
With health care reform we finally have a national imperative to transform our system- now let's get to work!

Sincerely,