Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1467797
102 W o r c e s t e r 3 0 0 : C i t y o f I n n o v a t o r s n 1977 to 1979 1977 to 1979 In February 1977, a unique and innovative organization is born in Worcester. Fallon Community Health Plan, a provider-payer partnership created in conjunction with Fallon Clinic (now Reliant Medical Group), launches with a mission to support the health care needs of the community it serves. Fallon quickly becomes the first federally qualified HMO in Central Massachusetts (the fourth in the state, 75th in the nation) and wins the first state contract to cover Medicaid beneficiaries. n 1980 to 1989 1980 to 1989 In 1980, Fallon becomes the first health plan in the country to offer a Medicare Advantage plan. In 1989, we become part of the Fallon Healthcare System, a national model for Fallon Health: A company that lives—and gives—in Worcester Fallon Health: A company that lives—and gives—in Worcester • Sponsor of area venues, sports teams and events, including: Worcester Red Sox, Worcester Railers, DCU Center, Mechanics Hall, Worcester Art Museum, The Hanover Theatre, and Worcester's Independence Day Fireworks • Philanthropic supporter of local charitable organizations, including: Worcester County Food Bank, United Way of Central Massachusetts, Boys & Girls Club, Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance, and Girls Inc. • Vital member of the local economy, employing more than 1,000 Massachusetts residents Fallon's founders had a vision to combine all components of the health care system into one. Committed to providing high-quality care at an affordable cost, they fulfilled that vision in 1977 with the launch of Fallon Community Health Plan. Today, we are Fallon Health. Throughout our 45-year history, we have worked closely with members, providers, community leaders, government organizations and others to enhance care and services. We partner with our members to understand what they want and need, and we work to address disparities in care created by social determinants of health. Ensuring high quality and excellence is the basis of everything we do, and our mission—improving health and inspiring hope—guides every decision we make. We invite you to take a journey through the decades to learn how Fallon has evolved to become a mission-focused, community-based, not-for- profit health care services organization that is nationally recognized. FALLON HEALTH: Improving health and inspiring hope for 45 years Richard Burke, Fallon Health President and CEO (left) and Frederick M. Misilo, Jr., Esq., Chair of the Fallon Health Board of Directors S P O N S O R E D P R O F I L E S