A new report from the Center for Connected Medicine (CCM) at UPMC and KLAS Research highlights significant changes in how health systems are adapting their ambulatory care strategies. This shift is in response to evolving patient expectations, workforce limitations, and heightened financial pressures. The report, titled “Moving Outside the Hospital: Ambulatory Care Strategies at Leading Health Systems,” illustrates how major health systems are increasingly delivering care closer to patients and in community settings rather than traditional inpatient environments.
Centralized Leadership Drives Change
The growing emphasis on ambulatory care is leading to a structural transition towards centralized leadership within health systems. Most health system leaders reported that their ambulatory care strategies are directed by individuals who possess system-wide visibility and the authority to influence decisions across various clinical programs. The overarching aim of this centralization is to foster alignment around critical areas such as care access, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
Targeting Growth in Key Markets
Health systems are also adopting a more strategic approach to expansion, concentrating on markets and service areas that hold the greatest potential for growth or where patient demand is strongest. Investments are being prioritized in scalable care models, particularly in high-growth and underserved regions.
Key areas of investment include:
– Multispecialty clinics
– Ambulatory surgical centers
– Virtual care platforms
These initiatives aim to boost patient retention and address gaps in care access.
Partnerships play a pivotal role in this expansion. The report indicates that health systems are increasingly relying on collaborations to broaden their care options and enhance accessibility. The partnerships often involve independent physician groups and technology firms, as well as third-party providers for specialized services such as telehealth and behavioral health.
For instance, UPMC has established a Community and Ambulatory Services division that is expanding access through a strategic collaboration with GoHealth Urgent Care. This partnership has led to the launch of over 80 urgent care centers across Pennsylvania and West Virginia this year.
The findings of this report underscore the dynamic changes within the healthcare landscape, emphasizing the need for health systems to innovate and adapt in order to meet the demands of modern patients. As the industry continues to evolve, the focus on ambulatory care strategies is likely to remain a critical priority for health organizations worldwide.
