Texas health systems' community-based partnerships decreased inpatient, ED use

Texas health system Baylor Scott & White managed to reduce its ED and inpatient use by collaborating with the city of Dallas to increase access to primary care and fitness programs. It partnered with the city's park and recreation department to offer medicine, fitness and nutrition, with the provider's wellness centre offering access to primary care, recreational facilities and free, bilingual nutrition and fitness classes for low-income families. A study of the initiative found people who went to the centre used the ED 21% less and inpatient services 36% less, resulting in an average cost decrease of 34% and 54%, respectively, over 12 months.