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MedCare steps in

MedCare steps in Provider now has partnerships with more than 30 health systems to manage their post-acute care needs

GREENSBURG, Pa. - MedCare Equipment Company has seemingly perfected the hospital-partnership model, recently adding two more to its already extensive roster.

In November, MedCare inked partnerships with both Home Health Resource at UPMC Altoona and Indiana Regional Medical Center, but the close timing of the two deals wasn't intentional, says John Sphon, MedCare CEO.

“We were looking to integrate Home Health Resource, so that just happened to coincide with Indiana's desire to come on,” he said. “We could have used a break, but when it comes it comes.”

MedCare, which is part of Excela Health System, will provideHME and respiratory therapy services to patients discharged from both hospitals. In the case of Home Health Resource, it will enhance services to include vents and apnea monitors.

Since 2008, MedCare has formed partnerships with more than 30 health systems and hospitals, including Heritage Valley, Butler, Washington, UPMC and St. Clair. It serves 25,000 patients annually, with a revenue base of $72 million. 

“Hospitals are asking, 'How are we going to manage this patient when they get discharged to a nursing home, home health or DME company,'” said Sphon. “So it makes sense in their world to have one company that can deal with post-acute management and handle that volume.”

To ensure a smooth transition, MedCare uses operations committees and hospital liaisons to answer questions and prevent problems before they happen.

“We're there gathering face-to-face written orders and getting equipment to the patient prior to discharge,” said Sphon. “We try to do a lot of interaction, education and establishing relationships upfront, which has gone a long way in making it all work.”




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