Minnesota’s Health Care Homes (HCH) certification program is transforming primary care by recognizing clinics that prioritize patient-centered, team-based care. This free and voluntary program offers significant benefits to clinics, health care professionals and patients across the state. Most uncertified clinics across the state may already be meeting many of the certification requirements.
The Minnesota Academy of Family Physicians has been a longtime supporter of HCH, as some of our leaders were involved as the initiative came together. We have adopted resolutions that are supportive of HCH and aim to make certification achievable for clinics statewide.
Many of our family medicine physicians work in certified health care homes; they value the infrastructure that the HCH model provides to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. They appreciate having a care team to support them in that work.
The MAFP endorses the HCH care delivery model to transform and advance primary care. After 15 years in Minnesota, it is time to reflect on its implementation and highlight some of the recent updates and changes.
There are numerous benefits to HCH certification; however, it is important to note one significant benefit that impacts physicians directly is the ability to use HCH certification to meet the Performance Improvement requirement for American Board of Family Medicine Certification.
What is a Health Care Home?
A primary care clinic or clinician certified by the Minnesota Department of Health to coordinate care among the primary care team, specialists and community partners to ensure patient-centered, whole person care and improve total health and well-being.
Why Pursue Health Care Homes Certification?
Over 60% of primary care clinics in Minnesota are certified HCHs.
In 2022, HCH added advanced certification levels to its model, recognizing the work done by clinics to advance health equity and impact population health.
Recognition for Excellence
HCH certification is a mark of high-quality, patient-centered care. Clinics that achieve certification demonstrate a commitment to continuous quality improvement, evidence-based practices and a team-based approach to care delivery.
Support for Continuous Improvement
The certification process is designed to be achievable for clinics already practicing many of its principles. It provides access to technical assistance, learning opportunities and a peer network to support ongoing improvement.
Enhancement of Patient Relationships
The HCH model puts patients at the forefront by fostering stronger relationships between individuals and their clinical care teams. This leads to improved patient engagement and better health outcomes.
Job Satisfaction for Clinicians
HCH clinicians and staff report higher job satisfaction due to a more collaborative and effective care environment.
Alignment with Value-Based Care Models
Certified Health Care Homes receive full credit from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) for Improvement Activities. Certification as an HCH provides accessible, effective, team-based coordinated care within a health care system. This foundational infrastructure is essential to successful participation in alternative payment models, such as Accountable Care Organizations or other value-based arrangements.
Advancement of Health Equity
Beyond the foundational certification, clinics can achieve additional levels of recognition for addressing social determinants of health, expanding community partnerships and enhancing whole-person care. These efforts support population health improvements and help reduce disparities in health outcomes.
Improvement of the Quadruple Aim
Research confirms that Health Care Homes improve all elements of the quadruple aim:
- Higher quality care
- Enhanced patient experience
- Increased staff satisfaction
- Improved cost-effectiveness
Commitment to Excellence
Becoming a Certified Health Care Home is an opportunity for clinics to showcase their commitment to excellence in primary care. By participating in this program, clinics contribute to a stronger, more equitable health care system in Minnesota.
Your clinic might already be satisfying most of the requirements.
More Information
Website: Health Care Homes (Minnesota Department of Health)
Online publications: Subscribe for HCH program and learning opportunities.
