A lot can happen in a short amount of time, especially when someone is really listening. Signify Health’s clinicians meet people where they’re most comfortable – in their homes, with time to listen and connect.
Signify Health clinicians meet eligible health insurance plan members where they want to be and where they are most comfortable: at home. During an In-Home Health Evaluation (IHE), members have the opportunity to spend extended time with a clinician to discuss their health and any health questions they may have and there is no cost for the visit.
“In a clinic, time can be limited and it’s not always possible to dive into every concern,” explained Jennifer Riffe, a physician assistant who performs IHEs in West Virginia. “But in the home, I can slow down, ask thoughtful questions and really understand how someone is doing. That time makes all the difference.”
Helping bridge the gaps in ongoing care
Signify Health works with many Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and commercial plans to help bridge gaps that can sometimes exist when individuals don’t see their doctor regularly or have questions that surface after their appointment.
“Sometimes what’s missing isn’t a medical test, it’s a conversation,” said Dr. Heidi Schwarzwald, Chief Medical Officer at Signify Health. “Our IHEs give people a chance to talk about what’s really going on with their health in an environment where they feel safe and heard.”
More time to talk can lead to more chances to catch concerns
During an IHE, Signify Health clinicians dedicate up to one hour for each visit. During an IHE clinicians often uncover new concerns or potentially concerning circumstances simply because they have extended time to talk with members and listen to what’s being said (and sometimes what isn’t).
“My experience was really good. In fact, I had the same medical provider that I had the last time,” explained one individual. “I don’t remember his name but he was very polite. Very professional. I would really love to have him again.”
Support that complements regular doctor visits
An important component of the IHE is understanding that it does not replace regular primary care visits or even an Annual Wellness Visit. “They’re about asking questions, reviewing health history and identifying concerns that may not have come up during a typical appointment. It’s an extra layer of support that can really make a difference.”
In addition to an “extra layer of support” the benefit of an IHE is that it takes place where people feel most at ease: at home. In the home there is not busy staff or crowded waiting rooms or drive time leading to a more personal experience. “When people are in the comfort of their home, they often open up more and feel they can ask additional questions,” explained physician assistant, Mary Jo Bloominger. The home setting is a benefit to clinicians too. “I can observe things I might not see in an office, like whether someone is steady on their feet or at risk for falls,” she added.
It’s about connection, not just checklists
Health and well-being is not just blood pressure readings or lab results or addressing a current health need. The human connection matters and some of the most important conversations and observations happen when they are unrushed and in the home .
Charles Moon, a nurse practitioner (PA), shared one of those powerful moments. “In the time between my first and second visit [with a health plan member], the member’s husband was diagnosed with cancer and passed away. She was having a hard time and appreciated seeing a familiar face for her next visit. It means so much to members that we take the time to sit with them and listen. I’m glad I could be there for her.”
After experiencing an IHE in the comfort of their home, whether sitting on the sofa or at the kitchen table, many members are more engaged with their health. This connection can lead to more engagement with their primary care provider during regular check-ups, annual wellness visits and other appointments.
Another individual who had a recent IHE summed up what many members have experienced: “[I] loved the NP and the depth of care and questions and health conversations, especially her listening and explaining my health concerns. She was kind, thorough, knowledgeable, and compassionate. [It was a] phenomenal experience!
Watch videos of real health plan member stories at HelloSignify.com.
Want to learn more?
To find out if you qualify for a no-cost IHE call us at 855-984-5121 or visit our HelloSignify.com. You can also call your health insurance plan directly to learn more.