Pennsylvania panel aims to transform chronic-care delivery

A chronic care commission appointed by Pennsylvania Gov. Rendell is set to unveil a plan to transform how care for chronic conditions is delivered in the state. The idea is to help patients manage their conditions before problems get out of control. Under the plan, family doctors and other clinicians will be trained and get financial support to redesign their practices. The doctors will also be encouraged to develop a more team-oriented system aimed at changing patient behaviors, such as providing basic education and calling people who miss appointments for key tests.