Health Systems Science educator spotlight: Kristin Leader Ramirez, PCHA

The Health Systems Science team at Penn State College of Medicine regularly profiles educators who communicate the value of health systems science to medical students.

Kristin Leader Ramirez, PCHA, is Director, Resident Services and Community Life, Country Meadows of Hershey. She is pictured at Country Meadows in January 2019.

Kristin writes, “I was thrilled when I was given the opportunity to work with the patient navigation program. With changing Medicare payment models, primary care providers are expected to coordinate all resources necessary to support the needs of seniors. Often, this type of medicine requires high-touch and more time involvement from a provider, as a simple medication often doesn’t solve the problems created by multiple chronic diseases. However, spending time and thoughtfulness to coordinate care and resources is also the right thing to do for older adults, and we are doing them a disservice if our healthcare system provides anything less.”

She continued, “During my time with the medical students, I provide an overview of the entire long-term care industry, including free community resources, home health, adult day and home care services, assisted living and skilled nursing care. Additionally, we touch on hospice care, mental health and discussions around the numerous health professionals and resources that we work hand in hand with every day as long-term care providers. I hope that the time spent in our community and with someone who is passionate about providing quality care and support to older adults help to inspire the students to consider this career as not only one that is sustainable, but also one that they can be enthusiastic about exploring for the future.”

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