Which of the following is a core principle of the patient-centered medical home (PCMH)?

• A. Team-based care, coordinated care, evidence-based practices, and enhanced access
• B. Isolated physician-led care with no patient involvement
• C. Randomized appointment scheduling
• D. Fragmented care with limited access

Answer: (A)

A key element of the patient-centered medical home is care that is delivered through a team-based, coordinated approach using evidence-based practices and enhanced access. In this model, a primary care team—such as physicians, nurses, care managers, and other professionals—works together to plan and deliver comprehensive care that centers on the patient’s needs. Coordination ensures smooth communication and collaboration across specialists, labs, and hospitals, with shared care plans. Using evidence-based practices means applying established guidelines to improve quality and safety in every encounter. Enhanced access means patients can get timely appointments, after-hours care, and convenient ways to reach the team, reducing barriers to care.

That contrasts with isolated physician-led care with no patient involvement, which misses the teamwork and patient partnership at the heart of PCMH. Randomized appointment scheduling does not reflect intentional, proactive access and continuity. Fragmented care with limited access directly opposes the goal of coordinated, accessible, patient-centered care.