The Huntington Medical Foundation -- Pasadena's Premier Medical Group

PASADENA, Calif., Dec. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Since 1994, the Huntington Medical Foundation (HMF), a group of 60 local physicians of various specialties, has been providing expert medical care to the families of Pasadena. This "homegrown" physician group accepts almost every major health plan and is affiliated with Huntington Memorial Hospital – but what really distinguishes HMF is the group's mission to provide a collaborative healthcare experience.

"Our partnership with Huntington Hospital and our investment in a sophisticated platform for electronic health records ensures our patients the most optimal level of care available in our region," said Wendy Karsten, chief executive officer of HMF.

And collaboration is king when it comes to the future of healthcare in America. As the nation hurtles toward reform deadlines, it is vital healthcare organizations like hospitals and medical practices align themselves in a care delivery system that includes the creation of web-based information exchange, or the confidential sharing of healthcare information between local providers. This exchange ultimately translates to less duplication and redundancy, greater efficiencies, higher patient satisfaction and better care.

HMF has implemented electronic health records and is already noticing the efficiencies. "We are able to electronically track physician orders including medical tests and procedures. We can interact electronically with local pharmacies – a huge step forward in reducing medication errors. We have the ability to transmit medical information to the hospital emergency department or consulting physician specialists. It's amazing to witness the difference electronic records are making make when it comes to patient care," said Karsten.

"We know that in the near future, medical groups, in conjunction with hospitals, will be responsible for patients before, during and after a hospital stay or a specific medical incident. We get this and we are positioned to move in the right direction with our Huntington Hospital partner."

Currently HMF is responsible for 100,000 "lives," within its seven offices, making it the dominant Pasadena-based physician group. Unlike Healthcare Partners and other Los Angeles-based medical groups, HMF confines its offices to the San Gabriel Valley's Pasadena, La Canada and Arcadia.

Those interested in joining the region's premier medical group and gaining access to HMF's exceptional physicians, should visit www.huntingtonmedical.com and check out a physician directory that includes photos and biographical information for every affiliated doctor.

For more information about the Huntington Medical Foundation, contact Huntington Hospital public relations at (626) 397-5464.

SOURCE Huntington Hospital