Imagine going to the hospital in labor, full of excitement and fears, only to be asked to recall every detail of your medical history. Now picture a different scenario: the doctor greets you and says, “We have your medical history.” In this moment, you can focus on what really matters—welcoming your baby.
This is becoming a reality for many patients, thanks to the partnership between Sutter Health and WellSpace Health. They have integrated their health records, allowing quick access to vital information across both organizations.
Shared Commitment to Community Health
The collaboration reflects a shared dedication to improving health access, especially for vulnerable populations. Sutter Health invested $4.5 million to implement a shared electronic health record system called Epic. This means real-time access to patients’ lab results, medications, and other crucial information.
Historically, patients using community health centers often faced challenges when transitioning to hospitals. But with this new integration, care is now more seamless. It builds trust, allowing for better continuity of care between WellSpace Health clinics and Sutter hospitals.
“Integrating Epic is vital for all patients,” says Kelly Brenk, senior director of Community Health for Sutter Health. “Closing gaps in healthcare information leads to better clinical outcomes and a superior patient experience.”
Whole-Person Care Matters
Sutter Health aims to be a comprehensive, connected health system. This integration is crucial for patients, especially moms delivering at Sutter hospitals. It allows for easy transfer of patient information like medications and medical history across different care settings.
Dr. Jonathan Porteus, CEO of WellSpace Health, emphasizes the change this brings: “If our patients access care at a Sutter hospital, they’re not starting over. Their care continues seamlessly. This is a game-changer for maternal health and diabetes management.”
Building Trust for a Better Future
Patients can now avoid repeating their medical histories over and over. With instant access to records, care becomes safer and more personal. This consistency is particularly important for those facing challenges in accessing healthcare.
Dr. Peter Hull, chief medical officer of Sutter Health’s Greater Sacramento Division, highlights the importance of trust. “This integration shows our patients that their care matters every step of the way.” When patients feel supported, they regain confidence in the health system.
For healthcare providers, this trust strengthens the bond with patients and allows them to concentrate on care. It’s not just about technology. It represents Sutter Health’s mission: to prioritize patients while building a future of connected care that’s efficient and accessible.
As healthcare evolves, partnerships like this pave the way for a brighter, healthier future—one built on trust and seamless collaboration. For more detailed information on this integration, you can visit Sutter Health and WellSpace Health.
