USACS NEWS
USACS shares news and information that keep you informed and demonstrate our commitment to efficiency and improved patient care and outcomes. A USACS representative is available for media inquiries.
Press Release
Dec 4, 2023
Dr. Thomas Aloia Joins US Acute Care Solutions Board of Directors
CANTON, Ohio, December 4, 2023 — US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, today announced Thomas Aloia, MD, MHCM, FACS, FACHE, has joined the group’s majority-physician Board of Directors. Dr. Aloia brings with him a wealth of experience as Senior Vice President and System Chief Medical Officer of Ascension. His expertise spans various critical areas, including inpatient safety, clinical documentation, hospital-based services, and acute clinical technology integration. Dr. Aloia's career is marked by his academic and administrative roles at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and his educational tenure at the University of California – Los Angeles, Duke University Medical Center, and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. His scholarly works and editorial positions in leading peer-reviewed journals underline his dedication to medical innovation and evidence-based practice. "The addition of Dr. Aloia to our board exemplifies our dedication to enhancing patient care through physician leadership," says Dominic J. Bagnoli, MD, FACEP, FAAEM, Executive Chair of the USACS Board. "His impressive background and relentless pursuit of excellence in patient safety and quality will be invaluable to our mission." Dr. Aloia is looking forward to contributing to the USACS mission, stating, "I am honored to join an organization that is fully committed to being the leader in physician-led acute care. Together, we will advance our shared vision of providing unparalleled care to our patients, supported by the highest standards of clinical excellence and innovation." Dr. Aloia's appointment is a testament to USACS' dedication to fostering a culture where physician leadership translates into superior patient care and fulfilling clinical careers. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately 10 million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Nov 2, 2023
Healthcare Innovators DispatchHealth and US Acute Care Solutions Join Forces to Transform Emergency Medicine and Propel Value-Based Care
Healthcare Innovators DispatchHealth and US Acute Care Solutions Join Forces to Transform Emergency Medicine and Propel Value-Based Care Collaboration prioritizes patient-centered care and healthcare efficiency DENVER, November 2, 2023 —DispatchHealth has teamed up with US Acute Care Solutions (USACS) to make healthcare better by expanding access to additional support for patients after a hospital stay or when they need hospital alternative care at home. This joint effort centers on shared education and alignment in offering DispatchHealth’s in-home care models, when medically appropriate, while addressing patient preferences and care needs. This model is designed to advance the Quadruple Aim in healthcare: enhancing care quality, improving health outcomes, lowering costs, and enriching the consumer experience while fostering the well-being of healthcare professionals and caregivers. Highlights of this collaboration include: Adding Tangible Value for Patients: Patients will experience more personalized, convenient, high-quality care within the comfort of their homes, leading to faster recovery and an enhanced overall experience. Enhancing Clinical Outcomes: By facilitating seamless transitions, this partnership aspires to boost key quality metrics. These include improved patient satisfaction, decreased hospital-acquired conditions, and fewer readmissions. Creating Seamless Transitions: USACS plays a pivotal role as a facilitator of medically appropriate care—it bridges the gap between hospitals, health systems, and DispatchHealth services, ensuring patients experience a smooth transition from hospitalization to in-home care or hospital alternative care at home. Addressing Crucial Healthcare Challenges: This collaboration squarely addresses the critical issues of prolonged hospital stays, escalating healthcare costs, and the need for more patient-centric care models. Empowering elevated levels of performance for health systems: By enabling health systems to thrive in value-based care models, this endeavor offers a comprehensive solution. It optimizes resource allocation, elevates performance metrics, and prioritizes patient-centered care. Christopher Hummer, CEO of USACS, emphasized the significance of teaming up on this effort: “This partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to empowering health systems to thrive in value-based care models. By engaging in innovative care models and continuous quality improvement, USACS and our clinicians are best positioned to facilitate the utilization of the most appropriate site of care. Our work with DispatchHealth will deliver a more patient-centered approach, creating value for patients and the whole healthcare ecosystem.” Dr. Mark Prather, co-founder and CEO of DispatchHealth, echoed this sentiment: "Our collaboration with USACS addresses the challenges that keep patients and care givers up at night. By helping USACS’ clinical teams understand and leverage our in-home medical services, they’ll deepen relationships with patients and health systems. Together, we’re making healthcare better and easier for everyone by providing real solutions that patients sincerely appreciate." DispatchHealth's innovative approach to high-acuity healthcare delivery has garnered widespread recognition. By providing seamless transitions from hospital to home, DispatchHealth reduces the need for extended hospital stays that are not medically required by the patient’s condition and enhances overall patient satisfaction. Their in-home medical services are not only a game-changer for clinical outcomes but also a powerful solution to the pressing issue of escalating healthcare costs. This collaboration between DispatchHealth and USACS embodies a shared vision of healthcare that prioritizes patients' needs while addressing industry-wide challenges. They are poised to make a substantial impact on patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and the overall healthcare experience—advancing the Quadruple Aim. For more information about DispatchHealth and USACS, please visit www.DispatchHealth.com and www.USACS.com. About DispatchHealthBringing the power of the hospital to the comfort of home™ DispatchHealth provides comprehensive and trusted medical care in the comfort of home to people with serious health concerns—with services that include same-day, urgent medical care; hospital alternative care; and recovery care. Our emergency medicine and hospitalist medicine trained care teams can use all the tools necessary—including imaging and IV infusions—to treat common to complex injuries and illnesses in the home. DispatchHealth is partnered with most major insurance companies and works closely with primary care and specialty care providers, EMS, health systems, senior living facilities, and employers to deliver in-home care that reduces unnecessary emergency room visits, hospital stays and readmissions. Since the company’s inception in 2013, our expert medical teams have treated more than one million people in their homes across more than 30 states in the country—resulting in 58% emergency room avoidance, 8.5% 30-day hospital readmission, 98% patient satisfaction, and nearly $1.5 billionin medical cost savings. For more information, visit DispatchHealth.com. About US Acute Care Solutions Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately 10 million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 13, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Recognized by the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program
US Acute Care Solutions Recognized by the American Medical Association’s Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program CANTON, Ohio, October 13, 2023 — US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, has been recognized by the American Medical Association’s (AMA) Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program for its outstanding commitment to caring for physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs). The Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program aims to encourage and guide organizations with over 100 physicians and/or APPs to engage in strategies to enhance physician and APP satisfaction, therefore reducing occurrences of burnout. As a physician-owned practice, USACS emphasizes the well-being of its more than 6,000 physicians and APPs, allowing them to focus on fulfilling the group’s mission: to care for patients. USACS stands committed to developing innovative practices and programs to provide clinicians with every tool necessary to deliver high-quality patient care while excelling in both their personal and professional lives. “We continually seek out tactics and resources to support our physicians and APPs,” said Jayne Kendall, MD, MBA, FACEP, CDE, CPE, Chief of Clinician Engagement at USACS. “The demands of the medical field are taxing both physically and mentally, so it is critical to be ahead of the curve when it comes to addressing burnout. With industry-leading programs and benefits – including paid parental leave and our 10% company-funded 401(k) contribution – we ensure our talented clinicians are supported in every aspect of their lives, empowering them to bring their ‘whole self’ to work as we care for patients on the front lines.” As a member of the Joy in Medicine Health System Recognition Program, USACS will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded health systems across the nation to share evidence-based solutions to burnout. The organization will also gain access to a plethora of established resources to incorporate into existing practices and protocols. “This is an outstanding opportunity for our organization,” said Christopher Ziebell, MD, FACEP, Director of Behavioral Health Innovation at USACS. “Being selected as one of the only physician practices amongst health system leaders speaks volumes about who we are and our commitment to serving both our patients and each other. Our leaders are looking forward to learning and exploring all the program has to offer.” About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately 10 million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 6, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Commits to Environmental Sustainability by Signing US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge
US Acute Care Solutions Commits to Environmental Sustainability by Signing US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge CANTON, Ohio, October 6, 2023 – US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, is proud to announce its official commitment to environmental sustainability through the signing of the US Department of Health and Human Services Climate Pledge. The Climate Pledge represents a step toward addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By signing, USACS commits to taking concrete actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize waste, and foster environmentally friendly practices within its operations. This initiative aligns with USACS' mission to provide exceptional patient care while prioritizing the health and well-being of communities across the nation, and ultimately across the globe. "At USACS, we recognize the vital role healthcare organizations play in protecting both individual and planetary health," said Chris Hummer, CEO of USACS. "By joining the Climate Pledge, we reaffirm our commitment to sustainability and demonstrate our dedication to being responsible stewards of the environment. We are proud to contribute to the collective effort in combating climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come." Dr. Marc Futernick, emergency medicine physician and member of the USACS National Clinical Governance Board, expressed his enthusiasm about the pledge stating, "As medical professionals, we have a duty to prioritize the health of our patients and communities in all aspects, including environmental stewardship. By signing the Climate Pledge, USACS underscores its commitment to the well-being of our patients, our colleagues, and our planet. This initiative will further inspire positive change within the healthcare industry and beyond." USACS is dedicated to implementing sustainable practices across its network. The organization will work diligently to minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and invest in eco-friendly technologies to create a more environmentally responsible healthcare system. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
Press Release
Oct 5, 2023
Dr. Jesse Pines Named Recipient of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD, Award for Excellence in Health Policy
Dr. Jesse Pines Named Recipient of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD, Award for Excellence in Health Policy CANTON, Ohio, October 5, 2023 – US Acute Care Solutions (USACS) today announced Jesse Pines, MD, MBA, FACEP, has received the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Colin C. Rorrie, Jr. Award for Excellence in Health Policy. The Colin C. Rorrie, Jr, PhD Award, named for ACEP’s executive director from 1982-2003, is presented annually to a member who has made a significant contribution to achieving ACEP’s health policy objectives, or who has demonstrated outstanding skills, talent, and commitment as an administrative or political leader. Dr. Pines, a distinguished professional in the field of medicine, currently holds the esteemed position of Chief of Clinical Innovation at USACS, and is a board-certified, practicing emergency physician. With a keen focus on advancing healthcare practices, he spearheads numerous initiatives encompassing alternative payment models, telemedicine, research, technology innovation, and other cutting-edge programs. Additionally, Dr. Pines assumes the role of Director for the prestigious USACS Fellowship in Clinical Innovation, which is entering its third year. Leveraging his extensive expertise, he serves as a Professor of Emergency Medicine at Drexel University and as a Clinical Professor of Emergency Medicine at George Washington University (GW). Prior to his role at USACS, Dr. Pines held various leadership and teaching positions at GW and the University of Pennsylvania, playing a pivotal role in enhancing emergency care practices. Notably, he served as the principal investigator for Urgent Matters, a prominent program dedicated to disseminating best practices in emergency care. He also served as a Senior Expert at the Brookings Institution, and a Senior Advisor to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation Center. He was a physician consultant to the National Quality Forum, focusing on quality measurement for nearly 12 years. “It is an honor to receive this prestigious award,” said Dr. Pines. “I sincerely value the opportunities I have been afforded given my involvement in ACEP and through my role at USACS. Contributing to the advancement of emergency medicine remains a driving force in my career. I hope to continue making an impact on behalf of all my colleagues and my patients.” Dr. Pines' educational journey is marked by exceptional achievements and a commitment to excellence. He obtained a bachelor's degree in the biological basis of behavior and a master's degree in clinical epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania. Furthering his pursuit of knowledge, Dr. Pines successfully acquired both a medical degree and an MBA from Georgetown University. He completed a residency in emergency medicine at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center, followed by a fellowship in research at the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, Dr. Pines has enriched his pedagogical skills by successfully completing the Master Teacher Leadership Development Certificate Program at GW School of Education Human Development. His extensive educational background equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities within the healthcare landscape. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]
General News
Sep 28, 2023
US Acute Care Solutions Executes a Multi-Year Agreement with Aetna, A CVS Health Company
US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the largest physician-owned emergency medicine and hospitalist practice in the United States, executed a multi-year agreement with Aetna, a CVS Health company on August 1, 2023. Under the new contract, Aetna's Commercial and Medicare members will have in-network access to acute care services delivered by approximately 6,000 USACS clinicians at more than 350 hospitals in communities spanning 24 states. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. ###
Press Release
Jul 20, 2023
Houston Methodist Selects US Acute Care Solutions as System-Wide Provider of Emergency Medicine Services
Houston Methodist Selects US Acute Care Solutions as System-Wide Provider of Emergency Medicine Services CANTON, Ohio, July 20, 2023 – Effective July 19, 2023, US Acute Care Solutions (USACS), the nation’s largest physician-owned and led acute care practice, has been named the exclusive provider of emergency medicine services across the renowned Houston Methodist system. Locations include: Houston Methodist Hospital Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital Houston Methodist West Houston Hospital Houston Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Cinco Ranch Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Cypress Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Kirby Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Voss Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Pearland Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Sienna Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Spring Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – The Woodlands Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Magnolia Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – League City Houston Methodist Emergency Care Center – Deer Park With a reputation for delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, Houston Methodist has been named the number one hospital system in Texas and one of the premier systems in the United States consistently for many years. USACS is honored to partner with Houston Methodist in this significant capacity. Under the agreement, the physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) currently caring for patients in the emergency departments of Houston Methodist will remain in their roles, and all full-time physicians will be offered the opportunity to become equity owners of USACS. This continuity of care will ensure patients maintain access to their trusted clinical team, while empowering the system’s physicians to secure their long-term future as physician-owners. Dr. Matt Patlovany, President and Chief Clinical Officer of USACS, commented on the opportunity to serve the Houston Methodist system, stating, "As a native Texan, I am acutely aware of the prestige and importance of Houston Methodist within our state. I am incredibly excited to lead this talented team of physicians and APCs in providing exceptional emergency medicine services to patients across the system. Our physician-owned and led approach puts patients at the forefront of every decision we make, and our focus will be on delivering compassionate, evidence-based care to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient who walks through our doors." "We are pleased to partner with USACS as the provider of emergency medicine services for our entire system. We continue to provide the high-quality service to our patients and community and believe this collaboration will enhance our emergency department services, further strengthening our ability to deliver exceptional care to our patients,” said Wayne Voss, CEO, Houston Methodist West Hospitaland executive sponsor of the hospital system’s emergency department council. Dominic J. Bagnoli, MD, FACEP, FAAEM, Executive Chair of the USACS Board of Directors said, “USACS was formed to bring the best groups in the country together to form a perpetual physician-owned organization in acute care services. We are focused on partnering with the best health systems in the country – Houston Methodist and the clinicians in the system are perfect partners in our long-term strategic vision.” USACS brings a wealth of expertise and resources to Houston Methodist, including advanced clinical protocols, innovative technology solutions, and a commitment to continuous quality improvement. This partnership will enhance the emergency medicine services provided throughout the Houston Methodist system, ensuring patients receive timely and effective care when they need it most. About USACS Founded by emergency medicine and inpatient physicians across the country, USACS is solely owned by its physicians and hospital system partners. The group is a national leader in integrated acute care, including emergency medicine, hospitalist, and critical care services. USACS provides high-quality care to approximately ten million patients annually across more than 500 programs and is aligned with many of the leading health systems in the country. Visit usacs.com for more. About Houston Methodist Houston Methodist is one of the nation’s leading health systems and academic medical centers. The health system consists of eight hospitals: Houston Methodist Hospital, its flagship academic hospital in the Texas Medical Center, six community hospitals and one long-term acute care hospital throughout the Greater Houston metropolitan area. Houston Methodist also includes a research institute; a comprehensive residency program; international patient services; freestanding comprehensive care, emergency care and imaging centers; and outpatient facilities. Houston Methodist employs approximately 30,000 people and had more than 1.9 million outpatient visits and more than 138,000 admissions in 2022. U.S. News World Report has named Houston Methodist Hospital the Best Hospital in Texas for 11 years in a row. Houston Methodist is the No. 1 hospital in Texas and No. 15 in the nation. For more information about Houston Methodist, visit houstonmethodist.org. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and On Health. ### Media Contact Marty Richmond Corporate Communications Department US Acute Care Solutions 330.493.4443 x1406 [email protected]