News from Packard Health

www.packardhealth.org MARCH 2014

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Our Commitment to Coverage

When a large complex system goes through large complex change, it's rarely a pretty sight. So it goes with the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Underneath the noise, there's real news of improvement. Many folks now have better insurance coverage. Despite a disastrous roll out, enrollment through the health exchanges reached 4.2 million by the end of February.

Michigan is ahead of the game. Due to the hard work of organizations like Packard Health and the Washtenaw Health Plan, the state has consistently exceeded projections for enrollment. Over 300,000 individuals have filled out online applications and 145,000 have selected plans as of February 28. The deadline for enrollment through the health exchanges is March 31.

Medicaid expansion, also part of the ACA, has received far less coverage. The expansion, building on existing systems, has functioned efficiently; nationwide 1.5 million were added to Medicaid in January. Unfortunately, Michigan is following an atypical route. As of early March, we do not have a date at which Medicaid expansion will be in effect.

To meet these challenges Packard Health has added enrollment staff and is fully prepared for Medicaid expansion and the last weeks of insurance signup through the health exchanges. Thanks to the generous support of the Coordinated Funders of Washtenaw County, we welcome Haidar Al-Mohammad, Patient Advocate, to our staff.

We're committed to helping people find insurance that's right for them. Our staff is trained to do just that. If you know someone who needs help with insurance enrollment please call (734) 971-1073 to schedule an appointment now.

Dr. Raymond Rion signature

Dr. Raymond Rion

Executive Director

2014 Insurance Enrollment - Last day is March 31

Packard Health is Here to Help

We know all about healthcare insurance and offer in-person help to compare plans and look at all options including Medicaid, Medicare and other programs.

Call (734) 971-1073 to set up an appointment. An appointment is necessary.

Healthy Eating Recipe

Chili to Shake the Chill

Here's a lightened-up, low-salt chili using ground turkey and a surprise spice. Whip up a batch on a blustery March day and warm up your insides in all the ways that are good for you. It's from Packard Health's Registered Dietitian, Karen Koeppe. Yum!

TURKEY CHILI RECIPE

Patient-Centered Medical Home

Packard Health's PCMH Model Goes Beyond the Office Setting

Packard Health's Model

The patient-centered medical home is a model of how health care should be organized and delivered. It is patient-centered, comprehensive, team-based, coordinated, accessible, and focused on quality and safety.

Learn about Packard Health's model in this
Blue Cross Blue Shield video.

Attention Facebook Folks!

Treat the Staff to Lunch!

Packard Health Facebook page is looking for 500 fans!

When we reach that magic number our deserving staff will be treated to lunch.

Tell your friends, pass it on, become a fan and feed our crew. Thank you!