National Kidney Foundation Honors Huron Valley Physicians Association and Care Choices with Innovations in Health Care Award

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich., April 28, 2004—The Huron Valley Physicians Association and Care Choices were honored by the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) on Wednesday, April 21st at its 6th annual Lansing Champion of Hope tribute dinner at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. They were among thirteen applicants who were selected to make a poster presentation for the first annual Innovations in Health Care presentation ceremony. The NKFM in partnership with the Michigan Association of Health Plans, Michigan Health and Hospital Association, Michigan Osteopathic Association, Michigan Primary Care Association, and Michigan State Medical Society acknowledged programs that improve the lives of Michigan residents with diabetes, kidney or cardiovascular disease. Each applicant presented their noteworthy program with a poster display at the event. “We were very impressed by the quality and creativity of the innovative health care presentations,” said Dan Carney, President and CEO of the NKFM.

The Huron Valley Physicians Association and Care Choices program focused on improving the care of their diabetes patient population through physician, hospital, and HMO collaboration. Creative interventions were designed to improve diabetes care. Outcome measures showed significant improvement in patient care over time. Huron Valley Physicians Association and Care Choices were one of four applicants who received the Innovations in Health Care award at the tribute dinner for their contributions toward enhancing the lives of Michigan residents.

The NKFM Lansing Champion of Hope event also honored two members of the Michigan legislature. This year, the NKFM recognized Senator Tony Stamas, 36th Senate District, and Representative Gretchen Whitmer, 69th House District. Proceeds from the event will benefit the programs and services of the NKFM.

The mission of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is to prevent kidney disease and improve the quality of life for those living with it. The two leading causes of kidney failure are diabetes and high blood pressure and 70% of these cases may have been prevented with early medical intervention. One in nine Michigan adults age 20+ have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and most don’t know it. Those at highest risk for chronic kidney disease include people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of chronic kidney disease; age 60 or over; and individuals who are African American, Hispanic American, Asian American or American Indian.