It Takes a Village

Community Care Physicians – Capital Healthcare Associates

These days, it’s fairly uncommon to be employed by the same company for 40 years. But when you love your job as much as Dr. Ronald Musto does, it’s a no-brainer. Musto started his career in private practice at Capital Healthcare Associates (formerly Troy Internists) in 1982. Capital Healthcare Associates later became one of the first primary care practices to join Community Care Physicians in the mid-90s. He says a lot has changed in the four decades he has been practicing medicine, but his team’s commitment to patients has been steadfast.

“It takes a village. From the office managers to nurses, and everyone in between, we all truly enjoy taking care of patients. This is the culture that contributes to our success.”

Musto says technology has helped the practice become more efficient, particularly when it comes to following up with patients and closing gaps in care. Their computer systems let the nurses and doctors know when a patient has missed a key test or screening, such as a mammogram, colonoscopy, or vaccination.

“Our IT team has become a critical partner in the care we provide, supplying important data that our physicians are able to act upon. The way I see it, if you can measure and track health indicators, you have an opportunity to improve a patient’s health.”

Musto says technology has not only made it easier on his office staff, but his goal is to make life easier for patients. He sees a day in the very near future where patients are automatically scheduled for routine tests and screenings.

Looking ahead to the future, Dr. Musto worries about physician burnout. He says administrative tasks are driving many physicians out of practice. He also worries about the nation’s lack of investment in public health, pointing to the COVID-19 pandemic as an example of a nation lacking the infrastructure to manage such public health emergencies.

“We did not – and do not – have the infrastructure to handle this sort of thing. That needs to change.”