Duke Health's Primary Care Clinics Recognized as Primary Care Medical Home
Duke Health's primary care clinics have earned formal recognition as a Primary Care Medical Home by The Joint Commission, an independent accrediting organization recognized for its quality standards in health care. Its Primary Care Medical Home certification acknowledges Duke Health's continued commitment to providing comprehensive, coordinated care in an unhurried, patient-focused environment.
What Is a Primary Care Medical Home?
A primary care medical home -- also known as a patient-centered medical home -- puts you firmly at the center of everything we do. Your care is coordinated by your primary care provider and a team of experienced providers who work together to meet all of your physical and mental health needs in a safe, nurturing, respectful, and supportive environment. That includes providing preventive care and emphasizing wellness throughout all phases of your life. It also means we coordinate your specialty care, hospitalization, access to community programs, and other health care necessities as they arise.
How My Duke Health Helps
One key element of your coordinated care is My Duke Health (previously My Duke Health). The secure online patient portal gives you 24-hour access to your health information. You can schedule appointments, request prescriptions, view medical results, and communicate with your providers.
In addition to My Duke Health, you can access Duke primary care clinics 24/7 by calling your primary care provider's office phone number. We have nurses and physicians on call and available to address clinical concerns as they arise. We schedule prompt appointments, and several of our primary care clinics have extended hours during the week as well as weekend hours. Our Duke Urgent Care centers provide care for urgent needs with no appointment necessary.
Your Active Participation Is Equally Important
While we pride ourselves on our team approach to your care, it’s important to know that you are the most important member of your care team, and we need you to play an active role. You can do this by sharing your feelings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being honest about your medical history. If there is any change in your health, let us know as soon as possible so we can address it together.
It's also important that you follow your provider’s advice, and take your medications as prescribed. We need to know about negative side effects or any questions you have.
Finally, we ask that you keep your scheduled appointments, arrive on time, and let us know by calling your primary care provider's practice directly at least 24 hours in advance when you need to reschedule.
Our Ongoing Commitment to Patient-Centered Care
Working as a team, with mutual respect and trust, we make sure you receive high-quality, comprehensive, coordinated care. That’s what a medical home is all about. Duke Health has always been committed to delivering this level of patient-centered care. The Joint Commission recognition is the seal of approval. We are proud and grateful to be recognized for our efforts and appreciate your part in helping us achieve this certification.
