Thundermist Health Center

Overview - Innovations

We're changing the way you receive care!

Thundermist recently opened a state-of-the-art health center in Woonsocket that incorporates the latest technology to welcome patients with a most innovative and effective design.  This design reduces patient wait time, paper work and unnecessary delays in providing patient care. 

The facility includes:

  • An open reception area – inviting and comfortable
  • Natural light-filled, aesthetic waiting rooms that underscore our commitment to patient dignity and comfort
  • A variety of consultation and patient education rooms and provide a setting which uses a multi-disciplinary team approach with patient involvement
  • A one-stop environment that effectively reduces stigmas and allows for comprehensive care through an integration of behavioral health and medical treatment rooms
  • A unique health care facility for the entire family, with amenities for children, elderly, women and chronically ill patients
  • A design that respects the diversity of our patient population with cultural sensitivity

 

In the West Warwick and South County sites, the patient flow moves quickly with an "Advanced Acess" appointment schedule.  Patients book their appointments with their provider of choice on dates and times that are convenient for them.  Advanced Access has showed great results: no-show rates have been dramatically reduced and patient satisfaction has improved.  Because appointments are being kept, both sites have seen dramatic increases in diabetes management and flu immunization rates.

Collaborative Work with Chronic Diseases

Thundermist has participated in the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) diabetes collaborative since 1999.  It has made a difference in patient outcomes at Thundermist in Woonsocket—lowering the collective HbA1c levels of the Woonsocket patient’s by one full percentage point.  Thundermist currently provides comprehensive care to over 700 diabetics across our system of care.  After sending teams to participate in collaborative training in diabetes, we spread the program to all our sites. 

Since February 2003, Thundermist has been one of five health centers nationwide participating in the Diabetes Prevention Pilot collaborative.  The program targets adolescent and adult patients from our Woonsocket health centers (and our school based and homeless shelter sites) who have impaired glucose response test results.  The increased screening has resulted in the identification of over 600 potential diabetic patients.

“At Thundermist, we use health care as a galvanizing point for the community.  Access to health care is vital to the well being of both individuals and our communities.”

- Maria Montanaro, MSW, Thundermist President/CEO