Whole person primary care (WPPC) is the foundation of a high-functioning healthcare system. WPPC meets the majority of an individual’s health needs and is easily accessible. Services addressing physical health, behavioral health, oral health and substance use needs are easily navigated by patients and the care provided is coordinated across settings and centers the needs of patients and families across the life course. A multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals work with family members and caregivers to collaborate around each patient and coordinate transitions of care. Patient needs are addressed in a comprehensive and coordinated approach that includes prevention, assessment and recognition of social determinants of health and trauma.
The health needs of a community are best addressed through accessible whole-person primary care and a system that supports such collaboration across settings and amongst care professionals in both public and private systems. Activities like population risk stratification, designing effective teams for community outreach, including home visits, palliative care, nutrition education, social and legal services, and housing assistance will help improve public health outcomes. Health equity in Pennsylvania will be achieved through promoting public policy and meaningful medical and non-medical wellness-promoting activities.