Delmarva Health Network launches to improve residents’ health
A group of progressive Sussex County physicians recently launched the Delmarva Health Network to improve patients’ health, their healthcare experience and lower the cost of healthcare.
“Delmarva Health Network was formed by 27 physicians in eight primary care practices. The network will allow us to better coordinate care that results in improved patient outcomes and patient experience,” said Jeffrey J. Heckert, M.D., Chairman of the Board of Directors of Delmarva Health Network and CEO of Mid-Atlantic Family Practice. “A main focus of Delmarva Health Network will be to coordinate primary care to help our patients stay healthy and reduce the need for expensive visits to the emergency room or a stay in the hospital.”
As part of its vision to make Sussex County residents healthier, Beebe Healthcare has participated in the meetings that led to the formation of the network and provided initial funding. Jeffrey M. Fried, FACHE, President and CEO of Beebe Healthcare said, “If we are truly committed to improving the health of the people we serve, reducing costs and providing exceptional care, it is essential to change the way care is delivered in our community. The formation of Delmarva Health Network provides the structure needed to lead this innovation.”
The network will initially focus on three areas: diabetes, vascular, and coronary conditions, explained Dr. Heckert. Research has demonstrated that these and other conditions can be proactively treated in primary care practices in ways that keep the conditions from worsening without costly interventions.
“We look forward to helping our community stay healthier and enjoy a better quality of life,” said Dr. Heckert. “Healthcare is changing rapidly, and Delmarva Health Network will make sure our patients receive the full benefits of this transformation. ”
The member practices in the network currently include the following:
Beacon Medical Group, Rehoboth Beach
Beebe Physician Network, Lewes, Milton, Georgetown, Millville
Steven H. Berkowitz, DO, Rehoboth Beach
Family Practice Center, Lewes
Griffin Family Practice, Selbyville
La Red Health Center, Georgetown, Seaford
Lewes Family Practice, Lewes
Mid-Atlantic Family Practice, Lewes, Millsboro
Delmarva Health Network is seeking additional primary care physician practices interested in aligning together to coordinate care and manage chronic diseases. The network is also developing programs to integrate physician specialists, skilled nursing facilities and other services. For physicians and healthcare providers interested in learning more about the network, please contact Alex Sydnor at (302) 645-3115 or at asydnor@beebehealthcare.org.
