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Cross-Project Analyses: Steven H. Woolf, Russell E. Glasgow, Alex Krist, Claudia Bartz, Susan A. Flocke, Jodi Summers Holtrop, Stephen F. Rothemich, and Ellen R. Wald Putting It Together: Finding Success in Behavior Change Through Integration of Services Ann Fam Med 2005; 3: S20-27S [Abstract] [Full text] [PDF]

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Electronic letters published:

Do the approaches used to modify risky health behaviors apply to disease and chronic care management , as well?

Morris B. Mellion   (17 August 2005)

Do the approaches used to modify risky health behaviors apply to disease and chronic care management , as well? 17 August 2005
Morris B. Mellion, Teton Village WY` Associate Medical Director, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association; Past President, AAFP Send response to journal: Re: Do the approaches used to modify risky health behaviors apply to disease and chronic care management , as well?	One aspect of “Putting It Together: Finding Success in Behavior Change Through Integration of Services” is a comparison of promoting healthy behaviors in primary care practice to the management of chronic disease in the same setting. Both are based on “providing patients with the knowledge, tools and support to incorporate self-care into their daily lives.” The importance of this comparison cannot be overstated. Primary care practice is being severely challenged by the development of call center based disease management and chronic care management. A uniform approach to managing health behaviors, specific diseases and chronic care patients will go a long way to maintain the integrity and viability of primary care practice. Round 1 of Prescription for Health suggests the need and feasibility of a uniform approach. Hopefully, the more integrated and comprehensive projects of Round 2 will confirm these findings. Morris B. Mellion, M. D. Associate Medical Director, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association Past President, American Academy of Family Physicians Competing interests:   None declared