Northwestern Medicine has introduced a Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program at Delnor Hospital in Geneva, Illinois, designed to support heart failure patients by providing proactive care at home. The initiative is a partnership between the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute and the Southern Fox Valley Emergency Medical Services system.
According to Jane Wilcox, MD, associate chief of cardiology and heart failure specialist at Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, “The Mobile Integrated Healthcare program brings cardiovascular care directly to our heart failure patients removing barriers and enabling earlier intervention when issues arise. This work reflects the strength and collaboration of our interdisciplinary heart failure team and our emergency medicine colleagues, whose commitment makes programs like this possible and improves outcomes for our patients.”
Heart failure is a chronic condition that can result in frequent hospitalizations if not managed properly. The MIH program aims to ease this burden by offering short-term, structured follow-up care in the patient’s home after hospitalization.
Parkson Lin, DO, EMS medical director of Southern Fox Valley EMS System based at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, stated, “Within the emergency medical services system, we often see heart failure patients return because managing symptoms at home can be overwhelming without the proper support. Partnering with the heart failure team through the Mobile Integrated Healthcare program is changing that. By bringing coordinated, in-home support to patients, we’re reducing repeat emergency visits and helping patients avoid inpatient hospitalizations.”
Clinicians use remote monitoring as part of the MIH program to identify health concerns early and maintain continuity between clinic visits. Ross VanDorpe, MD, cardiologist and medical director at the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital said, “Managing heart failure is challenging and the period after a hospitalization is when patients are most vulnerable. Even small changes in symptoms can lead to serious setbacks. By providing structure, support and clinical oversight, this program empowers patients to take control of a complex condition with confidence. It’s an important extension of the high‑quality heart failure care we strive to deliver every day.”
Patients eligible for MIH are referred by their clinician. Once enrolled, a specially trained paramedic visits three times over four weeks: first within 1–3 days after referral; second around two weeks later; third approximately four weeks after referral. The focus during these visits includes education about disease management and assessment for additional resources such as transportation assistance.
Ken Snow, paramedic with the MIH program and Continuing Education Specialist for Southern Fox Valley EMS System said,“During our home visits, we focus on listening and understanding how the patient is managing their heart failure at home. We also evaluate their current health status and determine if there is a need for any additional resources such as help with transportation to doctor’s appointments.The goal is to ensure the patient has the necessary education to understand their disease and their doctor’s care plan, as well as having the support they need so that they can have the confidence and the ability to improve their quality of life.Being able to help patients reach those goals is what makes this program so meaningful.”
Paramedics check vital signs like blood pressure and weight during each visit while reviewing medications with patients. They communicate regularly with other members of the care team who may adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Geneva resident Paul LoCicero was among those who benefited from this approach.“Two years ago,I accepted that I was going to die – I even received last rites.But the team at Delnor had other plans for me.Before,I would struggle to breathe then call paramedics.I would stay in hospital while they reduced fluid around my heart.I would be fine go home,but then same thing would happen.” He added,“Now they check in on me help me adjust my medications,and keep an eye on things before they get out of control.Instead of focusing on winning battle they’re focused on winning war.It truly feels like having guardian angel looking out for me,and it’s given me whole new life.”
Eligibility requires hospitalization or high risk for readmission due to heart failure,presence within service area,and willingness/ability for outpatient participation.Established Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute-Geneva patients may participate.
Emily Jakacki,president of Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital commented,“This program is a powerful example of how we’re evolving care beyond hospital walls making it accessible more patients.This initiative reinforces Northwestern Medicine’s commitment delivering high‑quality compassionate care within community.It’s meaningful step forward improving outcomes neighbors living with heart failure.”
The MIH initiative aligns with Northwestern Medicine’s broader mission focused on patient-centered care,research,and education.Northwestern Medicine operates under parent organization Northwestern Memorial HealthCare,engages in strategic collaborations,recognizes community contributions through humanitarian awards,and receives national recognition for supporting physician well-being.Howard B. Chrisman serves as president and CEO. More information about cardiovascular services can be found online or by calling 312.NM.HEART (312-664-3278).
