PHYSICIANS
The physicians are the central piece to the Provider Health Network (PHN). Patients have difficulty accessing healthcare especially in the specialty arena, or they have to wait for as long as six months or even a year to schedule an appointment or to have surgery. For many, the end result is the emergency room. With a strong network of physicians, the PHN can help these people receive more timely healthcare and reduce unnecessary emergency room visits.
The Provider Health Network does not ask that you take on more than your fair share or to even take on more patients than are already being seen. However, only physicians that agree to participate can refer patients into the program.
Physicians can donate services in two ways:
 | Donate patient slots in their own office |
| Volunteer hours at a member community clinic (maybe make it a link?) |
The PHN serves as a benefit to the physician:
| Making it Simple – The PHN takes the responsibility of finding the provider for a referral thus removing the burden from the physician and office staff |
| Record of Service – PHN participants will be provided with a record of their pro bono contributions annually. |
| Business as Usual – If wanted, patients will be seen in hospital or physician’s own office |
| Kept in the Loop – Referring physicians are informed of patients they have referred to other providers. |
| Total Control – Physicians will have complete control over the number of patients they wish to see and may leave the program at any time |
| Recognition – If wanted, there will be public recognition for PHN participants. |
If you are interested in participating or would like more information on the Provider Health Network, please download the PLEDGE CARD and fax to Lyn Widlaski at (713) 785-3077. You may also email him at lyn.widlaski@gatewaytocare.org
