How does URAC define "continuity of care"?

URAC defines "continuity of care" as the practice of ensuring that patients receive consistent and coordinated healthcare throughout their treatment journey. This concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining seamless communication and collaboration among healthcare providers, thereby ensuring that all aspects of a patient's care are integrated and cohesive. By focusing on this continuity, healthcare systems can improve patient outcomes, enhance the quality of care, and ensure that patients do not experience gaps in their treatment.

This approach involves various elements, including the management of chronic diseases, follow-up care after hospital discharge, and the coordination between primary care physicians and specialists. It aims to provide a holistic view of the patient’s healthcare experience, which is critical for effective treatment and management of health conditions.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of continuity of care as defined by URAC. Providing emergency interventions focuses solely on immediate needs without addressing ongoing care. Focusing solely on patient satisfaction overlooks the operational and logistical aspects necessary for effective patient management and does not directly relate to the continuity of care framework. Tracking patient referrals, while important, is just one component of a broader strategy that should include consistency and coordination across all levels of care for it to effectively support continuity.