Physician groups form integrated network in New Hampshire

Derry Medical Center, in Overlook Medical Park, Photo Google Earth

In a continuation of value-based efforts that have lowered readmission rates and Medicare and commercial costs, two large independent physician groups in New Hampshire have partnered with VillageMD, a primary care-focused management services organization, to form VillageMD-New Hampshire, a clinically-integrated network.

The new joint venture between Derry Medical Center and Southern New Hampshire Internal Medicine Associates will initially support a team of 57 providers that are part of the two physician groups. It intends to partner with additional primary care providers across the state, according to a statement from VillageMD-New Hampshire.

The clinically-integrated network will use VillageMD's data analytics, physician-based care coordination, and support resources. The clinical care model will assist physicians through integrated care teams of health coaches, diabetes educators, pharmacists and resource coordinators.

Derry Medical Center and SNHIMA are independent, multi-site practices. Dr. Edmund Schiavoni will continue to serve as SNIHMA's president, and Dr. Ted Brooks will remain president of Derry Medical Center. Both practices will continue to care for patients at the same locations and under the same names.

In recent years, the practices have achieved admissions and readmission rates 20 to 45 percent lower than the at-large community, Medicare costs are 20 to 45 percent lower, and commercial costs are 15 to 20 percent lower, according to a joint statement from the practices. These benchmarks have achieved recognition from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The goal of the partnership is to improve outcomes and lower the cost of care.

"(It's) giving primary care physicians everything they need to restore their position as the backbone of the healthcare system," said Tim Barry, CEO of VillageMD.