Oneida Times

In the Town of Webb, where health resources are limited, Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) is launching a new initiative to enhance healthcare access. MVHS operates the only primary care office in the area, and residents often face long travel times for specialty services and emergency care.

The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive continuum of care by uniting regional healthcare partners to bridge service gaps and coordinate care for high-need individuals. MVHS is among six regions in New York State piloting this Collaborative Model of Community Medicine and Paramedicine. The program receives funding from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation and support from organizations like the Iroquois Healthcare Association, Home Care Association of NYS, and IPRO.

Through its Rural HealthCare Partners Program, MVHS collaborates with Old Forge Volunteer Ambulance Corps, MVHS Town of Webb Medical Office, and Central Adirondack Partnership for the 21st Century (LivingADK). This partnership forms a mobile integrated healthcare (MIH) team designed to deliver home-based care for those unable to access it otherwise. The team includes EMTs/paramedics, home healthcare services, discharge planners, primary care providers, and preventive healthcare services.

Lisa Volo, senior director of MVHS Behavioral Health and Community Services, stated: “When healthcare agencies and organizations work together to deliver healthcare in a collaborative environment, we can help improve the quality of medical care in a region like the Town of Webb where resources are scarce.”

The MIH initiative's goal is to offer appropriate care and referral services within Webb to decrease unnecessary emergency transports as well as hospital admissions or readmissions.

For further details about this initiative, Lisa Volo can be contacted at 315-624-5677.