Dozens of physician leaders in Monterey County and Aspire Medicare Advantage
members watched Friday as the CEO’s of Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare
System (SVMHS) and Montage Health (parent company of Community Hospital
of the Monterey Peninsula) signed an historic agreement to elevate the
level of heath care in the community.
SVMHS and Montage Health (CHOMP) are now co-owners of Aspire Health Plan
and Community Health Innovations (CHI), which focus on coordination of
care, disease management and health and wellness services. Aspire Health
Plan is the only Medicare Advantage program in Monterey County offering
people eligible for Medicare a single plan that is simple, comprehensive
and cost effective.
“It was three years ago today we had our first meeting about uniting
physicians and two top rated hospitals in an important initiative focused
on community health,” says Jim Gilbert, MD MHCM, President of the
Monterey Bay Independent Physician Association. “The significance
of this partnership cannot be overstated.”
The collaboration comes during a time when there is a fundamental and profound
shift in the delivery of health care – with a focus on the Triple
Aim – a healthier population, improved patient experience and lower costs.
“The vision of both organizations is to create a healthier community,”
says Pete Delgado, President/CEO of Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare
System. “This groundbreaking partnership provides the framework
for us to work together to better coordinate care and expand access to
quality care on the Peninsula and in Salinas.”
More than half of all new Medicare recipients nationwide opt for a Medicare
Advantage plan because they provide coverage superior to traditional Medicare.
Aspire offers extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, chiropractic,
acupuncture and more.
Aspire Medicare Advantage Plan members and physicians praised the Aspire
Health Plan as convenient, simple and backed by trusted doctors and health
care providers.
“We are committed to every person in Monterey County being able to
achieve optimal health,” says Steven Packer, MD, President/CEO of
Montage Health. “This collaboration is a significant step in that
pursuit.”
It is important to note that this partnership is not a step toward a merger
between SVMHS and Community Hospital. There are no plans or discussions
regarding a merger. This is however a collaboration that benefits the
people of the region and the two organizations will continue to cooperate
and work on initiatives such as diabetes and other projects that ultimately
help create a healthier community.
The open enrollment period for Aspire Medicare Advantage Plan ends December
7th. More information can be found at
www.aspirehealthplan.org.