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When Hennepin Medical Center saw that some of their patients were frequently visiting the emergency department for all their health care needs, they recognized how vital it was to find a better way to care for them. Our guest this week is Christene Jolowsky, senior director of pharmacy at Hennepin Healthcare. Christene shares how Hennepin has used 340B savings to operate a coordinated care clinic that meets the health and social needs of their patients. Prior to the interview, we provide news updates on the restoration of full Medicare payment rates for 340B drugs and details about another drug company that is attempting to block the federal government from requiring 340B discounts on drugs dispensed at contract pharmacies.

A One-Stop Shop for Care

Chris shares how the coordinated care clinic determines which patients are eligible for its services. She then describes a typical patient experience at the clinic and how this experience meets the clinic’s mission to provide comprehensive care. This includes addressing social determinants of health such as transportation and food insecurity. 

Keys to the Clinic’s Success 

Many patients come into the clinic with distrust of the medical system and providers. Chris explains how Hennepin’s providers build trust with patients and provide personalized care. 

The Role of 340B

340B savings have supported every aspect of the coordinated care clinic. Chris discusses how the clinic’s presence has reduced emergency department visits and shares a story of how the clinic significantly reduced the number of prescribed medications for one of its patients.  

Check out all of our episodes on the 340B Insight podcast website. You also can stay updated on all 340B Health news and information by visiting our homepage. If you have any questions you’d like us to cover in this podcast, email us at [email protected].

Resources 

1. Medicare 340B Payment Cut Ending for the Remainder of 2022
2. UCB Sues HHS Over 340B Contract Pharmacy Violation Letter 
3. Report on Hennepin Healthcare’s Coordinated Clinic: 340B Hospitals Are Directing Savings Toward Their Communities’ Unique Needs