The Geriatric Primary Care program is a unique opportunity for eligible older patients to receive care from healthcare providers who specialize in geriatric medicine.  Ideal for patients who have multiple healthcare needs and would benefit from in-home and customized care plans, the program helps to ensure that older adults get the highly attentive care they need and deserve.

Check out the FAQ below to learn more about the program. If you have more questions, contact us at (508) 425-5694.

How did you choose me for this program?

This program is being offered to patients aged 75+, based on their healthcare needs, who would benefit from the specialized care of a provider with expertise in the unique needs of older patients.

What will be different about how I receive care in this program?

• You will have a new Reliant PCP and experience more specialized primary care provided by a Geriatric healthcare team that is specially trained to care for older adults.
• You will be able to spend more time with your providers and have your visits at home.
• You will also have a new phone number to call when you are ill or need to contact your Reliant provider’s office: (508) 425-5694

What do I have to do to join the Geriatric Primary Care Program?

Patients are invited to be in this program, based on their healthcare needs.  If you are contacted about this program and would like to enroll in this program, you:

• Call the Geriatrics team at (508) 425-5694 and let us know. We will take care of the enrollment process at Reliant and ensure all of your medical records are shared with your new Geriatric team.
• If you have Medicare Advantage, call your insurance company and let them know you want to switch primary care providers. We’ll make sure you have all the info you need to make this call.

Where is this program located?

For patients enrolled in the program, it is located wherever you need it to be! Patients can be seen:

• In the office: Patients with the ability to come into our offices for an appointment may do so, because leaving the house helps maintain strength and endurance.  We’ll see you in a Reliant primary care office that is convenient for you.
• At home: For patients who have difficulty getting to the office, no problem — we will arrange house calls if that is what best meets your needs.
• By video: For patients whose needs can be met with a video visit, we can do that too. In some cases, we may even be able to loan you a tablet, with an internet connection, so you can see and speak with your provider via video.

Where do I get my labs done?

Lab work can be completed at any Reliant primary care office.  If you can’t make it into the office, alternate arrangements for lab work may be available, including home test kits for some labs, or a home visit from a phlebotomist.

Who do I call for my meds and refills?

You will call your new primary care provider (PCP) in the Geriatric Care Program at (508) 425-5694.

Will I receive vaccinations at home?

Possibly. If you are receiving care at home and you need a vaccine that Reliant regularly administers, you will likely receive the vaccination at home. For vaccines that Reliant does not typically administer, we will help you find the most appropriate place to receive the vaccine.

Can I still see my specialist(s)?

Yes, you will continue seeing your current specialist(s) and have access to other Reliant specialists as needed.

Who do I call if I have a problem?

You will call the Geriatric Primary Care team at the direct line: (508) 425-5694.

How often will I see my provider?

Care will be provided as often as clinically necessary, for both preventative care and when you’re sick.

What are your hours?

Your care team will be available by telephone between 8:00 am and 9:00pm.  Your provider will be available to see you during regular business hours.  Medical assistance is available by telephone 24/7, with on- call nurses who can contact the on-call provider when necessary.

Will I have the same provider all the time, or will I be seeing different people?

Our Geriatric Primary Care providers and staff work together as a team so you may be cared for by more than one provider. However, you will have a PCP of record. We strive to make your experience personal and individualized to your situation and needs.

Will I have a doctor as my PCP?

While your healthcare team will include a physician, your primary care provider will be an Advanced Practitioner.

What is an Advanced Practitioner?

Advanced Practitioners (NPs/PAs) are highly skilled professional clinicians who provide direct medical care to patients. They are a central member of a robust care team. They provide much of the same care that doctors do such as: diagnosing and treating disease, prescribing medicine, ordering/evaluating diagnostic tests, counseling, and preventative care.  In addition to traditional primary care, our Geriatric APs are highly skilled in the changing medical, emotional and physical care needs specific to older adults.  You are in highly capable hands with our Advanced Practitioners.

Can I request to see a doctor instead of an AP?

The way the Geriatric Care Program works is that Advanced Practitioners (APs) provide patients with their medical care.  A physician is an important member of the team who works alongside our APs, nurses, social workers and care managers.  So, while you will see the AP regularly, the doctor is part of your care team.

What if I don’t like this program?  Can I switch back to my PCP?

We’re pretty sure you’re going to love it!  But participation is voluntary, and if you decide the program is not right for you, we will help you transition back to a traditional primary care provider. However, it may not be the one you are seeing now, based on availability.

What does this program cost?

There are no additional costs for this program. Some services may require co-pays or fall under your insurance deductible, just like regular visits to any of your Reliant providers.

Will my insurance accept this?

Yes, this program is covered by your insurance.

Do I have a co-pay?

A visit with your provider in this program will cost the same as a visit with your current primary care provider.  There are no additional costs for receiving your care in your home when necessary.