Integrated health systems (IHS) are organizational frameworks involving various healthcare services under a unified structure. The primary goal of IHS is coordinate patient care across different levels of service from primary care to specialized care to ensure a seamless experience for patients while enhancing the overall efficiency in health services. Continuity of care ensures patient information is consistently shared in a meaningful way to improve the quality of care. IHS considers the needs and preferences of patients through ‘patient-centered care’ to create personalized treatment plans. Cost savings are a benefit of implementing IHS due to resource optimization, the creation of a prevention-based philosophy on care, and by analyzing the economies of scale which consolidates services. Communities supported by IHS have better access to a wide range of healthcare services within a single network including primary care, specialty care, mental health, and social health. IHS may also help reduce disparities in healthcare access by providing coordinated care to reach underserved communities by addressing social determinants of health (SODH). Integrated health systems (IHS) are well-positioned to launch and oversee community health programs which focus on public health concerns, health education, and chronic health management. IHS represent a significant advancement in the delivery of healthcare by providing numerous benefits in the coordination of patient-centered care practices. I feel the most critical aspect of Inegrated health systems is the interoperability between them. There is yet a long way to go until the interoperability of data exchange is universally standardized to increase the effectiveness of analyzing relevant information. I am excited to see what the future holds with the current and future integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with integrated health systems to further enhance the decision-making culture. The expansion of telehealth shall be interesting to see as IHS continues to find ways to make it an attractive option for those unable to seek in person care. Patient-centered care models include personalized and holistic approaches to enhance patient engagement by providing the tools to make them empowered by knowing their health status. I have enjoyed Multicare’s patient portal where I am able to view updated charts, graphs, and numerical data in regard to my annual medical evaluation. I was empowered by my ability to study graphical data concerning my blood work to determine there were inaccuracies in the way it was analyzed by the healthcare provider.
