These means can also lower total healthcare costs. Also enclosed is information that demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of the HeartWarmers Program of the Western Maine Center for Heart Health. Community-based planning is essential. The integration of categorical health services with primary medical care and mental health is essential. Our experience shows that there is great power in trying to unite categorically funded programs with one another and with mainstream health and mental health programs to achieve a more seamless continuum of care and better health outcomes, as well as moderating healthcare costs.
Innovation is important .
We have successfully launched a number of creative initiatives, which have helped expand health access and improved the quality of care in this region. Examples of these initiatives include our Contract for Care program, the Franklin Health Access Project , the HeartWarmer s project, Peace in Our Families initiative, and the Growing Healthy Families program. This listing is but a small sample of literally hundreds of innovative efforts large and small that we launched to improve the health of the citizens we serve. Outreach is extremely important. It is important to find ways to reach out and connect with people in their homes and workplaces.